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CHARLESTON" 



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5 DEDICATED TO THE Q. A. R. 



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Copy 1 R | CAL MILITARY DRAMA I 



IN POUR ACTS, J 



5 ■««/gj3g" 

Q. fl. CONNELL, 



AUTHOR OF 



THE FALL OF ATLANTA. 



j 
3 

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COPYRIGHTED 1HS-J6. J 



CHARLESTON 



-AN- 



HISTORICAL MILITARY DRAMA, 

IN FOUR ACTS, 



BY 



Q. fl. CONNELL, 



AUTHOR OF 



"THE FALL OF ATLANTA. 



DEDICATED TO THE G. A. R. 



LISBON, OHIO. 
REPUBLICAN LEADER PRINT. 

1885. 



4y> 






Entered according to the act of Congress in the year 

1895 by 

G. M. CONNEUv, 

In the office of the Librarian of Congress. 



TMP92-008904 



NOTICE, 



This book is the property of the author and must be 
returned on the second night of rehearsal. Do not 
^ mutilate or mark it but return it in as good condition as 
possible. 



"CHARLESTON" has been copyrighted by me and I 
will prosecute any person or organization using it or 
any part of it without my consent. 

G. M. CONNELL, Lisbon, Ohio. 



SCENE PLOT. 

ACT. I. 

Scene i. — Parlor, C. D. opens on Horizon. 
SCENE 2. — Plain chamber, (or street, ) in i. ' 

Scene 3. — Horizon. Set house R 3d E. Balustrade 
R. to L. 

ACT II. 

Scene i — Same as Scene 1, Act 2. 

Scene 2 — Street in 1. 

Scene 3. — Horizon. Sea Wall, R. to L. 

ACT III. 

Scene i. — Parlor same as Scene 1, Act 1 and 2. 
Scene 2. — Street in 1. 

Scene 3. — Landscape. Stage set house L. Set waters 
and bridge R. to L. in 3. 

ACT IV. 

Scene 1.— Landscape, in 4, Tents R. to L. in 3. 

Scene 2. — Wood in 1. 

Scene 3 — Same as Scene 2, Act 3. Rustic bench R. 

EXITS AND ENTRANCES. 

As you face the audience, R , right; L , left; RUE, 
right upper entrance; L U. E , left upper entrance; C. 
D. , center door. 



CAST. OF CHARACTERS. 

♦ ♦♦♦♦♦ 

HARRY ASHWORTH— Col. U. S. A. 

RICHARD GETTY— Major C. S. A. Provost Marshal 

of Charleston. 
BOB ASHWORTH— Uncle of Harry, Southern fire eater. 
*JOHN HURST— A Union man and Mexican veteran. 
*GEN. BEAUREGARD— Confederate commander at 

Charleston. 
BILL THOMPSON— A Rebel Guerilla Captain. 
SPOT— A Sergeant, after Lieutenant, in C. S. A. 
CAPT. MARSHALL— Captain in U. S. A. A Spy. 
tDENNIS CORRAGEN— Harry's friend-Q. M. Connell. 
iJEW ISACCS— A money lender. 
f MOSE— John Hurst's old slave. 
ISAM— A slave of Bob Ash worth's. 
STELLA ASHWORTH— Daughter of Bob's. 
MRS. HURST— Wife of John. 
KITTY MURPHY— Stella's maid. 

Goddess of Liberty, War and Angel of Peace. From 
4 to 50 soldiers. 

*j t Can be doubled. 



COSTUMES. 

Beauregard, Getty and Spot— Confederate gray. 
Harry— Citizen's clothes first. After, Col. U. S. A. 
Bob Ash worth, John Hurst and Bill Thompson— Citizen 

clothes. 
Capt. Marshall— Long black coat first. After, Captain 

U.S. A. F 

Sam— Neat white suit first. After, old clothes. 
Mose— Long duster, straw hat, boots and old pants. 
Stella — Traveling, house and street dress. 
Mrs. Hurst— Traveling and house dress. 
Kitty — Traveling and short house dress. 

I furnish gray coats and hats for the Confederate 
officers and soldiers. 



...CHARLESTON... 



ACT I. 

SCENE. I. 

(Parlor in Bob Ashworth's home in Charleston.— Bob Ashworth 
and John Hurst enter, R. U. E ) 

Bob. Ashworth -Major, I am surprised at your not 
taking a more active part in our movement for Southern 
Independence. 

John Hurst — I have been for peace. War is a dread- 
ful thing under any circumstances, but more especially 
is civil war cruel where brother is arrayed against brother, 
father against son, and near neighbors either at dagger's 
drawn or living in fear of each other. 

Bob. A. — But look at our old Commanders, General 
Twiggs, Colonel Davis, Capts. Bragg and McCullough, by 
whose side we fought on the glorious fields of Mexico. 
They are all with us, and should we hesitate to follow 
where they lead? 

John H. — I have, I candidly confess, felt myself at a 
loss as to what course I should pursue in this struggle. It 
is hard for a man of my years to turn against the old flag. 

Rob . A — I too respected the flag of my country when 
it floated over a constitutional government; but that 
time has passed. Our property is insecure ; our slaves are 
being run off and secreted in northern cities by Abolition 
vandals. Are we of the South going to endure this treat- 
ment forever? 

John H. — We should try all peaceable means before 
resorting to the arbitratment of arms. 



CHARLESTON. 



Bob A. — Ha, ha, how could a stove pipe go off? 

Sam— Sombody on der oder side ob de wall hit it vvid a 
club and knocked it off. 

Bob A — Well, Sam, it might have taken off your ears. 

Sam — Den Gen. Beauregard could hab had dem for 
cannoneers . 

Bob A. — Capt. Getty, since Sam has developed his sol- 
dier propensity, I will lend him to you until his marshal 
spirit is somewhat cooled. 

Getty — Thank you, Colonel, I would be pleased to 
have him, for he is a very likely boy. 

Bob A. — That settles it. Sam, you will now go and get 
your traps and be ready to accompany Capt. Getty, when 
he leaves, (going R. U. B.) and mind you, boy, be a good 
servant. Come, Captain. (BxitBob and Getty, R. U. E.) 

Sam— I golly. I'se none of your common niggers, I 
isn't. I'se going wid Massa Dick. Well, I'se glad of dat, 
fo if I stayed around yere long dat wild girl would kill 
me sure (Enter Kitty R. 2d E. with club.) Oh gosh! 
(ExitC. D ) 

Kitty— Get out of this. (Exit after Sam.) (Enter 
Mrs Hurst and Harry, h. U E ) 

Harry — Now, Aunt Mary, it is useless for you to try to 
persuade me to join your Confederacy. It is the rankest 
weed that ever was planted on American soil. 

Mrs. H. — Harry, I had hoped better things of you. 
When your uncle wrote to us that you were going to re- 
turn from Europe, he hinted that a commission in the 
Confederate army awaited you. 

Harry — He has never spoken to me on the subject, 
for if he had he would have learned that Harry Ash worth, 
whose father fell mortally wounded while leading his 
company in the battle of Cerro Gordo, would not dis- 
grace the memory of so noble a sire. If our southern 
people carry out the plans dictated by such men as Jeff 
Davis, and fire on Fort Sumpter, then perhaps I shall cast 



CHARLESTON. 



my lot with the Union. 

Mrs H. — And aid in destroying your friends? 

Harry — Time will show you that I have no friends 
(enter Stella, L. U E ) in the South when it is known I 
am a Union man 

STEiyiyA —Here, here, can't I leave you people alone 
a minute without your talking politics? Barry, Aunt 
Mary is to leave for her home this evening, and I don't 
want you to quarrel with her before she goes. 

Harry — Why, I was not quarreling with Aunt She 
was trying to persuade me to join the Confederacy and I 
respectfully declined. 

STEEEA— Well, for my part, Aunt, 1 think Harry is old 
enough to choose for himself whom he will serve. 

Harry —Thank you, Stella, for that compliment, and 
Aunt Mary, I venture the assertion that your husband 
has no sympathy with his country's enemies 

Mrs EL — i ie says little about the coming crisis. 

vSTEELA — And papa talks of little else. Poor papa! 
He v, ill be terribly disappointed, Harry, when he learns 
your heart is with the North. (Enter Mr. Ash worth, 
Hurst and Dick Getty, R. U. E ) 

Bob A. — Well, my boy, have you been paying the 
batteries a visit? 

Harry Yes, Uncle, the ladies and I have been taking 
a run out to Fort Moultrie. 

Bob A -I am informed that it is about ready to rain 
shot and shell on Sumpter when the time comes Harry, 
Captain Getty has a surprise for you. 

GETTY — Harry Ash worth, I have the "honor to present 
to you a commission as Captain in the First South Caro- 
lina Confederate Volunteers. (Gives papers.) 

Harry — While I thank you for the interest you have 
displayed in my behalf, I cannot accept a commission in 
the Rebel army. 

Bob A.— Rebel, sir, do I hear aright? Do you decline 



CHARLESTON. 



a commission in the Confederate service? 

Harry —Yes, uncle, I think this movement ill advised. 
It will end in the emancipation of our slaves and in the 
suffering of the Southern people. You should count the 
cost before you take an)' rash steps 

Bob A — It is too late\ You have seen the batteries 
that girdle Fort Sumpter. In a few days we will knock 
Major Anderson's walls to pieces and humiliate the flag 
he so insultingly flaunts in our faces. Lincoln has taken 
his seat, but he finds himself without an army to back 
him and an empty magazine. 

Harry — Thanks to Cobb, Floyd and Thompson, who 
stripped the government of its means of defense by filling 
the forts of the Southern seaboard with munitions of 
war, and placing their own tools over them. 

GETTY —You forget that to one of the men you de- 
nounce I owe all I am to-day. 

Harry — I forget nothing. Had it not been for John 
B Floyd you would not be wearing that ensign of 
treason . 

Getty— I will make you answer for that insult, sir. 

Harry— At your pleasure. (Business.) 

Mrs H. — Come, gentlemen, don't let your passion get 
the better of your judgment. 

Harry — Beg pardon, ladies, I shall be more guarded 
in the future. 

GETTY — You had better be, for we have no room for 
traitors in Charleston. 

Harry— Then you had better emigrate. 

Bob A. — Harry, this has gone far enough. I want no 
more treasonable utterances in this house. 

Harry — Uncle Robert, who taught me to love and re- 
vere the flag under which my father died? You From 
my youth up I have listened to your recital of gallant 
deeds done by heroic men for their country's honor. I 
have heard you condemn Aaron Burr for his treason in 



CHARLESTON. 



forcible language, and with these teachings instilled into 
my heart, do you expect me, because South Carolina 
leads the van and others follow to turn traitor too, throw 
my hat on high and shout for the Confederac}^? Never! 
Those who can stifle their conscience may; but I shall 
remain true to the Union. 

John H. — (crossing to Harry. ) My boy, I saw your 
father die, and I am glad to know a father so noble left so 
worthy a son. (Retiring to C ) 

Bob A. — John Hurst do you encourage that young 
miscreant in his treason? , 

John H. — If ever a departed spirit spoke through the 
flesh that boy's father speaks through him. Do you 
remember his dying words, Bob, the day we bore him 
bleeding from - the field? I remember them as though it 
were but yesterday. "Robert," he said, "rear my or- 
phan boy as your own and teach him to love God and 
the country for which I die. ' ' You have done your duty 
well, Bob, and perhaps too well for your own liking, but I 
can see in it the guiding hand of a sainted father who 
will not permit the principles it took years to inculcate, 
to be obliterated in a single hour. 

Bob A. — You will give us your word of honor, sir, that 
if you do not join us in our struggle for Southern inde- 
pendance, you will at least remain neutral? 

Harry— I can not do it, uncle. Neutrality is a shield 
behind which cowards hide, and I flatter myself / am no 
coward. God only knows how sincerely I regret that 
our sympathies are so far apart, but between domestic 
and political obedience, I must draw a line of distinction, 
and reserve for myself the right to think and act as I 
please in this matter. 

Getty— And you please to disgrace the family by join- 
ing the Yankee mudsills? 

Harry— When the black sheep of the flock turns bell- 



CHARLESTON. 



wether, it is time for the shepherd to look after the 
lambs. 

GETTY — Do yon mean to insinuate ? 

Harry — That, cousin though you be, your reputation 
has never been above the average. 

Bob A. — That is the second time you have insulted 
your cousin. It was through his influence the commis- 
sion was obtained for you which you so scornfully re- 
jected. He is, I am proud to sa}-, my guest, and you 
shall apologize to him or leave my house forever. 

Harry — I owe that man no apology and I shall make 
none. * 

Bob A. — Then go, and never darken my door again. 
(Business.) 

Harry — Be it so. ( Going) I hope you may some day see 
how you have wronged me. (Going L. U. E.) 

STEEEA— Oh, father, have pity 

Bob A. — Silence, girl, and do not dare to plead for that 
ungrateful scoundrel, or I'll bundle you after him, bag 
and baggage. (Stella turns — plaintive music — goes up 
stage to Harry. Exit Harry and Stella followed by Mrs. 
Hurst. ) 

John H. — Bob Ash worth, you 're a fool. (ExitL. U. E.) 

Bob. A. — Let them go. And Captain, come with me 
into the library. I want to send a message by you to Gen. 
Beauregard requesting the privilege of firing the first 
gun on Sumpter. Come. (Exit Ashworth and Getty, 
R. U. E.) 



SCENE II. Captain Getty's office in Charleston. — Enter Sam 
with table, two chairs and a musket. 

Sam — Look out for de locomotive when ye hear de 
whistle ring and de bell blow, for I'se a comin'. I'snt 
just an ossifer in de army, but since Massa Bob Ash- 
worth loaned me to Capt. Getty, I'se a fighting man's 



CHARLESTON. 13 



servant and I must learn somfin 'bout war. (Business, 
Getty heard off C. D.) 

GETTY— All right, Lieutenant, I'll take care of these 
papers. 

Sam— I golly, dar conies Massa Dick. I must get out 
of dis. (Exit R. 1 E. Enter Getty, L.) 

Getty — Ha, ha. Well, time works wonders. A few 
days ago Harry Ash worth was the heir apparent to old 
Ashworth's thousands, and his daughter's hand. To- 
day I stand in favor with the old gentleman, and Harry 
is an outcast. If I only succeed in getting the daughter 
the old man's wealth will be mine. (Enter Isaacs, L,. ) 

Jew — Good morning, Mr. Geddy. I hope you vas 
vel dese morning. 

Getty — I can't see that I am any better for knowing 
you, Jew. 

JEW— I vas subrisedad you, Mr. Geddy. Ven you vants 
some monish it vas always Mr. Isaacs, but ven you gets 
a leedle up in der vorld you calls me Shew. 

GETTY — My time is too precious to waste on you. 

JEW — Veil, my monish vas do brecious to vaste on you 
needer. 

Getty — Well, what do you want? 

JEW — I vant you do bay me dot tree hundred dollar 
vot you borrow from me and I don't bodder you some 
more. 

GETTY — Why, confound your Jew pictures, but you're 
in a hurry 

Jew -Veil, I vants my money. 

Getty — That note is not due for a week yet. 

Jew — I know dot, but dey begin do fight purdy toon, 
und maybe you gets killed, und den vot vill I do vor 
mine monish? 

Getty — Suppose I am killed to-morrow. You have 
Harry Ashworth's note for four hundred dollars as 
security. 



14 CHARLESTON. 



Jew — Yes, clot vas so. I never tod me about dot. I 
I ust go cud dare do-day und see me if dot node vas all 
right. (Going.) 

GETTY — Stop ! W hat do you mean by such language ? 

Jew — Ma) T be dot node vas not shenuine. 

Getty— Hang 3'ou (draws sword) for an old Jew scoun- 
drel. Do you mean to insinuate that I forged the note? 
(Runs at Jew.) 

Jew — 1 did not say dot. I did not say dot. 

Getty — What do you mean then? 

Jew— Yi you have dot node for four hundred dollar. 
You yants some money; vi dond you sold dot node in der 
pank, instead of pawning id to me for tree hundred 
dollar? 

Getty — That is part of my business. 

Jew— Yes, und dot vas bard of my business do, und I 
go to Mr. Ashword unci see me aboud it. 

Getty -I'll swear I never saw the note. 

Jew — Your name is'on der pack of id. 

Getty — Let me see it. 

Jew— Oh, no, Mr. Geddy, you link I vas a fool. 

GETTY — Now look here, Mr. Isaacs, you give me that 
note. (Draws pistol. ) 

Jew — Oh, don't shoot me Mr. Geddy. Just tink of my 
poor vife and shildren. 

Getty — Give me that note. 

Jew— I don't got it vid me, Mr. Geddy. 

GETTY— I believe you are lying. 

Jew — So help me Isaac und Jacob, I dold you cle truth. 

GETTY— Jew, if you present that note to Harry Ash- 
worth I will have you arrested for forging my name on 
the back ot it. 

Jew— Me arrested for forgery? 

Getty— Yes, and I natter myself that the oath of Cap- 
tain Getty, provost marshal of Charleston, will be taken 
in preference to that of a Jew money lender. 



CHARLESTON. 15 

Jew — I never tod of dot, Mr. Geddy, I never tod of 
dot. But yon vill pay me my moneys some time, vont 
yon? 

GETTY — Perhaps I will when I get ready. So go. 

JEW — Tank yon, good day, Mr. Geddy. (Goes to door, 
shakes paper at Getty's back. Exit L.) 

GETTY— Well, I think I have frightened the life out of 
that Jew There is no danger of his going to Harry 
now. (Enter Bill Thompson, L, disguised. ) Well, what 
can I do for you? 

Bite T. — (Takes off whiskers. ) How are you, Dick, 
old boy? Put-er -thar. 

Getty— Well, if it isn't Bill Thompson. 

Bite — Didn't know me, did you? Well, ye look as 
dandified as a New Orleans policeman in that uniform. 

GETTY — Where have you been so long? 

Bite— Been down in Texas until it got a little un- 
healthy forme, and then I run on the M ississippi a month 
or two, until I struck a better snap. 

Getty — What was that? 

Bii.e — War on the border. I organized a company of 
guerrillas out on the Mississippi just below New Madrid. 

Getty— How do you make that pay? 

BiEE — Run off Union men's niggers, take them to 
Memphis or Vicksburg and sell em, see? I just brought 
two down last week that we gobbled over in Missouri. 
Sold tliem and come over to see you knock Yankee 
Doodle out of Fort Sumpter. 

Getty— We will commence operations in a few days, 
Bill, and then you will see some fun. But you will have 
to keep shady or 3-ou will get us both into trouble. Old 
Jew Isaacs says he will have you in the penitentiary. 

Bice -What for? 

G ETl y — For trading him a free nigger. 

BiEE — Ha, ha. Well, the one he. swapped me had fits, 
so I reckon we are about even. I met the old reprobate 



1 6 CHARLESTON. 

a minute ago, but he didn't know me. Been getting 
another loan? 

Getty — No, he wanted me to pay the one we got six 
months ago. 

Bill — 'Tain't quite due yet 

GETTY — No, but he threatened to go to Harry Ash- 
worth and see if that note was genuine. 

Bill — Thunder! You didn't let him go, did you? 

GETTY — No, I soon frightened that notion out of his 
head. 

Bill— Don't be so sure of that Dick That old chap is 
a sly coon. It wouldn't surprise me if he went straight 
to Ashworth's from here. 

GETTY— If he did he will not find him, for his old uncle 
drove him from home on account of his Union senti- 
ments. 

Bill — The thunder you say. Why he was to marry 
the daughter. 

GETTY — Yes, but that is busted now, and I have aspi- 
rations that way myself. 

Bill — You? Ha, ha, ha. 

GETTY — Yes, me. Is there anything strange about 
that? 

Bill — Oh, no, not if the girl will have you, but I wish 
the old man luck with his son-in-law. 

GETTY — Well, I have made up my mind to marry her, 
and you know I generally accomplish what I undertake. 
(Enter Sergeant Spot, L,., Sam comes to R . ) 

Spot — Captain, that man Ash worth and his Irishman 
have returned from Fort Sumpter where they have been 
all night, and have gone towards Bob Ashworth's 
landing. 

Getty — All right, Spot He has thrown himself liable 
to be tried as a spy and hanged. You will detail a 
couple of guards and we will arrest him. Station your- 



CHARLESTON. 17 



selves in the grove within call of the house. Be there in 
a couple of hours. 

Spot — Yes, sir. (Exit D ) 

GETTY — Now, Bill, I want you to help me in this 
matter. 

BILL— All right, Dick, I'm in for a job. What is it? 

GETTY— Here are maps of all of our fortifications in 
and around Charleston, (writes on envelope). I want 
you to take them down to Ashworth's place and try to 
see Harry. If you do, give them to him. Tell him a 
man sent them, but answer no questions. 

Bill — I understand, and when you arrest him you 
will find them on his person and hang him as a spy. 

GETTY — That is just my intention, or he must leave 

Charleston. 

Bill— All right, Dick; I'm off. (Exit L.) 

Getty — (Calls) Sam! (Enter Sam R). Now straighten 
things up a little and you can have this afternoon to 
yourself. I will not be in until late to-night. (Exit h.) 

Sam — No, he don't be in 'till late to-night. Well, dis 
chile don't be in 'till late needer. So dey's goin' to 
cotch Massa Harry for a spy, is dey? Well, I just dun 
go out and tol him and Irish to scat or dey '11 be cotched 
sure. I'll jis red up a little before I go. Look out down 
dar, for I's goin' to shoot. Battery! forward, march. 
(ExitR.) 
.SCENE III.— (Bob As'aworth's Home in Charleston, set house, 

R. U. E., Rustic seat, L. vases, balustrade back, Jew crosses L, 

toR. U. E.— Exit.) 

Kitty— (Entering R. U. E.) Oh, my! Oh, my! but 
this war is enough to drive one distracted entirely. There 
is Miss Stella almost agoing into hystrikes because her 
father drove Master Harry away yesterday. If I'd be 
her I'd tell the old tarmullion to go to tunder and I'd 
marry the boy for spite. And there's (Enter Dennis L. 
U. E.; comes down unseen) Dennis, if the young master 
goes he'll go too. Then what will I do at all? 



1 8 CHARLESTON. 



Dennis— (Puts hands over Kitty's eyes.) Who is it? 

Kitty — Dennis Corregan. 

Dennis — How did you know it was me, swateheart? 

Kitty — Be yer brogue, to be sure. 

Dennis — Is me brogue different from an}- other 
Irishman? 

Kitty— Yes. Yours smells of cloves. Have ye been 
drinking? 

Dennis — No. I met some soldiers over there and they 
made me holler, ' ' Hurrah for the Southern Confederacy, ' ' 
so I have been ateing cloves ever since to take the taste 
out of me mouth. 

Kitty — Give me a clove, (gives one.) Dennis, does 
hollering for the Confederacy make your breath smell 
like gin? (Puts clove in mouth.) 

Dennis — Yes, of course, like a cotton gin. Ha! ha! 
do you see the point? 

Kitty — (Pulling tack from tongue. ) No, but I felt it. 
That was a tack. 

Dennis — Ha! ha! ha! That is once yer tongue found 
its match. 

Kitty— Oh! but yer sharp. 

Dennis — Was ye spaking to me or the tack? 

Kitty — I mane you, and I don't like ye a bit, so I 
don't. 

Dennis — Now, Kitty, I'll come to the point. (Busi- 
ness. ) If ye don't like me why was ye crying for me 
just now. 

Kitty — I wasn't crying for you, I was crying for — for — 

Dennis — Oh, I know, for Seargeant Spot. 

Kitty — Seargeant Spot, sure and I wouldn't wipe me 
old shoes on the likes of him. 

Dennis — Who was you crying for, Kitty? (Enter Sam 
L. U. E., comes down back of Dennis and Kitty. ) 

Kitty — I wasn't crying at all. Me eyes are wake from 
watching the soldiers drill. 



CHARLESTON. 19 



Dennis — Oh, murder! what a fib. (Kitty strikes at 
Dennis and hits Sam.) 

Sam — Murder, I dun got my eyes knocked out. 

Dennis — You ought to have yer head knocked off. 
What are yez doing here? 

Sam — I dun come to tell you and Massa Harry to 
"s-cat," fer Massa Dick am gwan to hab bofe of you ar- 
rested this ebening. 

Dennis — Have us arrested! Sure and what have we 
done? 

Sam — Sergeant Spot dun seed you and Massa Harry 
come from de fort and Massa Dick said youse was spies 
and orter be hanged. 

Kitty— Oh, Dennis! They'll kill you entirely if ye 
don't lave. 

Sam— It's my opinion you'd better "scat." 

DEnnis— Well, I'll hunt Mr. Harry and get his 
opinion. Come, Kitty, you go along. It may be the 
last chance ye'll have to walk wid a gentleman. (Exit 
Kitty and Dennis R. U. E.) 

Sam— For de Lord, I 'spect I hab to put a rotten apple 
on dat eye to keep it from getting black. (Exit R. 1 E.) 
(Enter Harry and^ Stella L. U. E. ) (Enter Bill T. R. 1 E.) 

BiEE T.— A man sent this to you. (Exit L. U. E.) 

STEEEA — Harry, father is so carried away with this 
movement that he would not hesitate to turn me into the 
streets if he knew my sympathies were with you and your 
cause. 

Harry— I do not doubt it, Stella, since he so ruthlessly 
•ordered me from his house; but since I have found you 
loyal, I care not who are traitors. 

STEEEA — But you must be more guarded in your 
speech. Remember that this is Charleston, and that 
loyal men are as scarce in it as righteous people were in 
Sodom. 

Harry— I have no doubt that my Union sentiments 



CHARLESTON". 



will soon be known throughout the city. Richard was 
very angry last evening, and you can rest assured he will 
embrace every opportunity to harass and annoy me. 

STELLA — I fear so. Where did you spend last night? 

Harry — With Major Anderson and his noble men out 
in FortSumpter. 

STELLA— In Fort Sumpter? 

Harry — Yes, Dennis and I rowed out last evening and 
just returned. 

STELLA — Oh, Harry, why were you so rash? Are you 
not aware that all who visit Sumpter are looked upon as 
spies and traitors? (Enter Dennis R. U. E. ) If any one 
saw you return I fear you will be arrested. 

Dennis — (Coming down.) Mr. Harry, could I spake to 
yez a minute? (Stella goes up left.) 

Harry— Well, what is it Dennis? 

DENNIS— The bloody rebels are getting ready to arrest 
us. 

Harry— What do you mean? 

DENNIS — Mane? That Seargeant Spot saw us coming 
from the Fort and reported us to Dick Getty. 

Harry — Are you sure of that? 

DENNIS — Sure of it? Didn't that smoked African, Sam, 
come to me awhile ago and told me that we had better 
"scat," as his master was agoing to arrest us for being 
spies, and maybe we'd be hanged by the neck. 

Harry — That would be unpleasant, Dennis. 

DENNIS — Yes; I'd rather be hanged by the two thumbs, 
and then it wouldn't spoil my paper collar. 

Harry— Oh, they would remove your collar. 

DENNIS — I'd rather not give them the chance, they 
might tear out the buttonholes. 

Harry — Well, Dennis, you go and get the boat ready, 
and I will join you in a few minutes. 

DENNIS— All right, Mr. Harry. When ye hare the 
whip-poor-will, be ready to go, fer I'd rather be a liv- 



CHARLESTON, 



iiig nagiirthan a dead Irishman. (Exit R. U. E.) (Stella 
conies down. ) 

Harry — Stella, Richard Getty, true to his instinct, has 
placed a spy over me, Seargeant Spot, who witnessed our 
return from Sumpter. We are to be ai rested this even- 
ing. (Enter Dick. ) 

STELLA— Oh, Harry, fly! fly! ere it is too late. 

GETTY— (Coming down.) Fortunately for the Con- 
federacy, it is too late. Miss Stella, will you please re- 
tire; I wish to speak to Harry alone. (Stella goes off R. 
U. E.) Now, sir, you have been caught returning from 
Sumpter. 

II ark Y — Granted . 

GETTY — It is to be inferred that you have been in com- 
munication with Major Anderson. 

Harry— As i spy? 

GETTY — For what other purpose would you visit him? 

Harry — I wanted to talk to a loyal man, and I have 
found none such in Charleston. 

GETTY — There are a few like you who have m< rt- 
tongue than brains, but unless they leave soon, we will 
make short work of them. Charleston shall not hold a 
living soul opposed to us. 

Harry — I suppose you are clothed with dictatorial 
power. 

GETTY— Almost. I could have you thrown into prison 
and tried as a spy. More than that, I could condemn 
you here and nobody would question my authority; but 
God forbid that I should deal harshly with you. If you 
leave for the North within twenty-four hours, you shall 
not be molested. 

Harry — Go North? I cannot think of it. Come weal 
or woe, I'll stay. If Sumpter's flag is to fall, 1 shall 
witness the event. 

GETTY — Then through prison bars it shall be. Since 
you have rejected mercy, I will show you that a soldier 



22 CHARLESTON. 



of the South can be stern and unswerving in the line of 
duty. I am going to forget that we are cousins. I shall 
see in you only an enemy of the Confederacy, a spy. 

Harry — Very well, perhaps the cup of oblivion which 
duty puts to your lips, will let me forget that I ever had 
a cousin so base as to desert the flag of his country and 
to commit a forgery. 

GETTY — Forgery! I will not be insulted again. (Draws 
pistol to shoot Harry, who seizes his hands and scuffles 
down stage.) Unhand me, villain, or I'll call the guard. 

Harry — Call for help, brave man, but you shall re- 
linquish your pistol first. (Enter Stella R. U. E.) 

GETTY — You disarm me? Never! (Struggles up stage 
to center, pistol shot, Getty falls.) 

Stella — (Coming down stage quick.) Oh, Harry! fly 
for your life. The guard is coming. 

Harry — I have done no harm, Stella. He shot him- 
self. 

STEEEA— I know it, Harry, but fly! (Whip-poor-will 
heard off R.) 

Harry— I'll go. Farewell. (Goes off R. U. E. with 
Stella. Enter Spot and 2 soldiers L. 2 E.) 

Spot — Surrender! Halt! or we'll fire. Fire on him 
men. (Men draw guns up to fire.) 

STEEEA— (Entering R. U. E. ) If you do, it will be 
through my body. (Enter Kitty.) 

KiTTY — And mine too. (Business.) 

TABLEAU— Liberty, War and Peace— Curtain. 



ACT II. 

SCENE I.— (Parlor in Bob Ashworth's house— Kitty and Stella 

discovered.) 

STELLA — But one more hour of peace remains, and 
then the great struggle for southern independence be- 



CHARLESTON. 23 



gins, with Harry on one side and father on the other. 
Poor papa, he is not himself since the struggle began, or 
he would not have asked permission to fire the first gun 
at Sumpter, knowing that Harry was compelled to seek 
safety with Major Anderson and his brave men. How I 
pray that they may both be spared to me! 

KiTTY — And while you are at it, why not pray for the 
speedy hanging of all the rebel cutthroats. 

STELLA — Kitty! Kitty! you put it too strongly. 

KiTTY — No stronger than the rope every mother's son 
of them ought to have around his neck. (Bnter Dick 
Getty unobserved C. D. ) Now there is Dick Getty — 

GETTY— (Coming down.) Well, what of him, Miss 
Kitty. 

KiTTY — Murder! spake of Satan and he always appears. 

GETTY — Why, I'm not Satan, Kitty! I'm only Major 
Getty. 

KiTTY — Ha! a distinction widout a difference. 

GETTY — But what were you going to say about me? 

KiTTY — That it was a pity that Master Harry's bullet 
hadn't a gone clane through your head instead of only 
palin the bark off. 

GETTY — That is the advantage of having a thick skull, 
Kitty. 

KiTTY — Mr. Harry should have known ye had a thick 
skull, because there wasn't room for brains inside. 

GETTY — Oh, but you're smart. 

KiTTY— I'm sorry I can't return the compliment. 

STELLA — Come, Kitty, don't be saucy. 

KiTTY — Sure, I can't help it, mum, so I'll lave. 

GETTY — (Going R. 2 B.)Tarta, sissy. 

KiTTY — Och! you go part your hair in the middle and 
wear bangs. (Bxit R. 2 B.) 

Getty — Stella, in an hour we open fire on Fort 
Sumpter, and you will soon see the stars and stripes come 
down . 



24 CHARLESTON. 



Stella — The sight will not be very gratifying to me. 

GETTY — You surprise me. Surely you do not sympa- 
thize with the North? 

STELLA — My heart has never been with the cause that 
is preached daily in the streets of Charleston 

GETTY — I thought it was. but I did not seek you to 
talk politics I have come for your hnal answer. 

STELLA — It is useless for you to press your suit 
further. I am the affianced wife of Harry Ash worth. 

GETTY — Then let me catch this base coward who has 
thrown himself between me and the only woman I love. 
I shall repay his treachery to the South, and his attempt 
to murder me. 

Stella — Look me in the eye, Richard Getty, and say 
Harry shot you. Your own story has made you a hero 
in the eyes of Charleston people. They have read of the 
terrible struggle you had with Harry on our lawn. You 
have raised yourself one step higher in rank, and have 
covered Harry with infamy by your false accusations. 

GETTY — False! By heaven, woman, the)- are true. 

STELLA — God, witness his assertion! I saw you shoot 
yourself. 

. rv— You? 

Stella — Yes. I saw you draw your pistol to shoot 
Harry and in his attempt to take it from you, you shot 
yourself. Richard Getty, I despise a liar. 

GETTY — We will capture Fort Sumpter, and when your 
affianced husband is hanged as a spy, you shall realize 
whether it is true or false. (Enter Mr. Ashworth un- 
observed . | 

STELLA— Go back to Fort Moultrie, and triumph for a 
brief season. I shall watch the first shot, and although 
my father fires it, my heart shall be with Major Anderson 
and hismeii. (Ashworth comes down stage.) 



CHARLESTON. 



Bob A. — Then, this house shelters you no longer. Not 
another night shall you remain under my roof. "Your 
heart is with Major Anderson and his men," is it? I 
heard that much, and Heaven knows it is enough. What 
will the people of Charleston say when they hear that 
in}- roof has sheltered two ingrates instead of one? Go! 
the street is your home from this hour, and may God 
forgive you? I never can. 

Stella — I'll go, but I leave the old home with a 
prayer for your safety in the coming conflict. 

GETTY— Stay, Stella, reconsider you answer. Marry 
me and all will yet be well. 

Bob A.— What! Richard Getty, do I hear aright? Do 
you offer that ungrateful girl your heart and hand? You, 
whose life was sought by her scamp of a lover? 

GETTY — I can forgive her for her attachment to Harry 
and his cause, so great is my love for her. 

Bob A. — Such generosity shall not go unrewarded. 
What say you, girl? Will you accept the offer of Major 
Getty? 

STELLA — No, father, I cannot; I am the affianced wife 
of Harry. (Rushes up to Stella, grasps her by the arm, 
goes down stage. ) 

Bob A. — I say you shall. (Enter Spot and Marshall, 
Marshall disguised as a priest.) 

Spot — Excuse me, Major, but this man was found down 
by the batteries without a pass, and knowing you were 
here, I just brought him over. 

GETTY — Well, sir, what excuse have you to offer? 

Marshall — Knowing that hostilities were about to 
commence, I thought perhaps I might be wanted to 
minister to some poor unfortunate soldier who might be 
wounded. 

Getty— Sergeant, that man's robe should be protection 
enough for him. You may return to your duty. 

Bob A. — Stay! (To priest.) Father, in view of the fact 



26 CHARLESTON. 



that there is no telling what may happen in the conflict 
to-day, I desire you to unite these young people in mar- 
riage. Major Getty, please show those gentlemen to the 
library. 

Getty — Yes, sir. (Exit Getty, Marshall, and Spot, 
R. U. E.) 

Bob A. — Now, listen to me, Stella, I have reared one 
viper who has humiliated and disgraced me almost be- 
yond endurance, and betore I will face further disgrace, 
with this pistol, (draws pistol) I will end my own mis- 
erable existence, and may my blood be on you and your 
ungrateful lover. 

STEEEA — (Catching arm.). Oh, don't! father, don't! 

Bob A. — Then come to the library, and if you refuse 
to marry Major Getty, I will execute what I have 
threatened. Come. (Exit with Stella R. U. E.) 

Sam — (Entering C. D.) Now, I wonder what's de 
matter? Massa Dick dun told me to fotch dis yere gun 
up to Massa Ashworth's, and now he ain't here. I'll jist 
lay it here and he can get it when he comes. 

Kitty — (Heard off.) Murder! murder! 

Sam — I golly! dar comes dat wild girl. I's a gone 
nigger dis time sure. I jist hide here. (Hides. Enter 
Kitty R. 2 E.) 

Kitty — Oh, my! oh, my! I just wish Mr. Harry and 
Dennis were here wid their guns. I know they would 
kill all of them for making Miss Stella marry that 
scoundrel in the library. Oh! how I would like to 
scratch his eyes out. What is this? A pistol! (Takes 
pistol.) I have a notion to go and shoot him myself. 
(Pistol goes off.) (Business.) 

Sam — Is you killed, Miss? 

Kitty— No, I am not killed. 

Sam — Den is I killed? 

Kitty — No, you are not killed, nather, but there will 
be a nigger funeral here in about a minute. (Gets pistol.) 



CHARLESTON. 



Sam — 'Scuse me, but I don't want to furnish de corpse. 
(Exit followed by Kitty.) 

SCENE II.— Street in Charleston— Enter Dennis in disguise. 

Dennis — Well, I'm here, an old soldier that fought in 
the battle of Cerro Gordo until I got a pin knocked from 
under me, and ever since that I have been like Pat 
Logan, the cobbler, I've had to "peg" it. Sure I 
could tache them home guards how to drill yet. 
(Business.) Och, murder! look at the jude. (Enter 
Sam R.) Hello, nagger! Do you know a family be the 
name of Ashworth? 

Sam — Yes, boss, dat's my master's name. 

Dennis — Yes, I thought I'd sane that black mug of 
yours before. Your master and I were in the Mexican 
war together. 

Sam — I golly! I jis thought you use to be in de warr 
or else you ust to rund a threshing machine. 

Dennis — Yes, sir, I've done both. I run a threshing 
machine down in Mississippi. 

Sam — I golly! I didn't know dey raised much grain 
down dar. 

Dennis— Well, they raise naggers and the naggers 
raise cane. 

Sam— Yes, dat's so. 

Dennis — And when a nagger raises cane we thrash 
'em. 

Sam — Golly! Den I'd rather raise cotton. 

Dennis — Is Miss Stella at home? 

Sam — No. She dun come down dis way some place. 
and, as dey is going to begin fighting perty soon, I come 
down to see if I could find her. 

Dennis — They are going to commence hostile move- 
ments, are they? 

Sam — I don't know; I neber seed dat kind. 

Dennis— That kind of what? 



28 CHARLESTON. 



Sam — Hosstail movements. Do dey move de cannon 
wid the hoss's tail? 

Dennis — No, you black fool, I mane are they going to 
commence to bombard the Fort? 

Sam — Oh, yes; and Massa Bob Ash worth am going to 
fire de first gun. 

Dennis — I hope it will burst and blow his old head off. 

Sam — Be careful what you say, boss, for dar dey come. 
(Exit L.) (Enter Gen. Beauregard with Ashworth and 
Getty R.) 

Gen. B.— Mr. Ashworth, you are about to fire the first 
shot for Southern Independence. Let us trust its vibra- 
tions may awaken to a sense of duty all southern hearts 
who have been halting between state and national gov- 
ernment. For with that shot we pledge the future of the 
South. 

Bob A. — True, General, and I feel proud of the dis- 
tinction of having set the ball rolling that will establish 
the greatest Republic on the Western Hemisphere. 

Gen. B. — I know of no man more worthy. 

Bob A. — I desire to wipe out the disgrace of having 
reared the viper who sought to murder this gallant offi- 
cer, and I trust the shot I fire may find him out, and 
punish him for his nefarious crime. 

Gen. B. — When Sumpter falls, as fall it will, he shall 
not be included in the capitulation. We shall try him 
for attempting to assassinate Major Getty. (To Dick. ) 
Major you will accompany Mr. Ashworth to the battery. 

GETTY— Yes, sir. (Starts off L. ) 

Gen. B. — Your gun, Mr. Ashworth, will be the signal 
for one hundred others to begin raining shot and shell 
on that doomed fort. (Exit Dick Getty and Ashworth L. ) 

Marshall — ( Enters (R. ) disguised as a priest. ) Have I 
the honor of addressing General Beauregard? 

Gen. B. — Yes, father. < 

Marshall — My name is Thomas McGuire, of St. 



CHARLESTON. 29 



Peters, and I would like to get a pass out to Fort Sump- 
ter. I fear they will have need of me. 

GEN. B. — No doubt, father, some of those Yankees will 
need a confessor before we get through with them, but it 
would be folly for you to attempt to reach the fort to-day, 
as we will begin to shell it in a few minutes. (Gun heard 
off.) Ah! there is the first shot. (Exit L ) 

Marshall -I will go down to the battery and watch 
the beginning of their great struggle. ( Exit L. Enter 
Harry, R, disguised.) 

Harry — There goes the shot that seals the doom of 
secession and human slavery. They may compel Major 
Anderson to lower the American flag, but two thousand 
more will go up and the "Cotton States" will rue the day 
they heard the thunder of their first gun. I will go down 
and witness the bombardment for a short time, and then 
I must away to Washington with Major Anderson's last 
report. (Exit L.) 
SCENE III.— Wharf in Charleston— Gen. Beauregard and Bob 

Ashworth discovered. 

Gen B. — Major Anderson defends the flag nobly, Col.; 
he is doing all that is possible for man to do, but surely 
he can see that his efforts are hopeless. I wish he would 
surrender and stop this effusion of blood. 

Bob A. — Ha! ha! General. I am glad I have lived to 
see this day. It is the proudest of my life, sir. Confound 
those northern Abolitionists! this will teach them to re- 
spect southern rights (Shot near ) Ah! that was a 
pretty close call. 

GEN. B.— Yes, it appears as though the Major was 
sending us his compliments in rather a forcible manner. 

Bob A. — Well, let them come. The Yankee bullet has 
not been cast that will close my earthly career. 

GEN. B.— Be not too sure of that, Colonel. (Enter 
Jew on wall, R.) 

Bob A. — Why, Gen. Beauregard, I expect to live long 



3© CHARLESTON. 



enough to see the Southern Confederacy firmly estab- 
lished. (Shell strikes stage, explosion. Ashworth reels, 
is caught by Gen. B. and let down on stage.) (Jew falls 
over the wall into water. ) 

GEN. B.— Men, get a stretcher quickly; Col. Ashworth 
is badly wounded. (Enter men with stretcher and slowly 
carry Ashworth off.) Ah! there comes the boat from 
Sumpter. (Boat comes on stage Getty gets off boat, 
boat passes.) Well, Major, what answer did Major 
Anderson make to my demands? 

Getty — Here is his answer, General. 
GEN. B. — (Reads.) "Headquarters, Fort Sumpter, 
April 12, 1861. To Brigadier General P. G. T. Beaure- 
gard. General: I have the honor to acknowledge the 
receipt of communication demanding the evacuation of 
this fort, and to say in reply thereto, that it is a demand 
with which, I regret that my sense of honor, and my ob- 
ligation to my government, prevents my compliance. I 
am not yet out of ammunition, if I am out of bread. And 
as Union soldiers fight best on empty stomachs, I shall 
endeavor to hold the fort until aid reaches me from my 
government, or iintil the fort is battered down over our 
heads. I have the honor to be, General, very respect- 
fully, 3'our obedient servant, Robert Anderson, Major 
U. S A., Commanding." (To Getty.) So it appears 
from this, that Major Anderson still thinks he will re- 
ceive assistance from his government. Well, that de- 
lusion will be dispelled before the dawn of another day. 
By the way, Major Getty, did you see that cowardly 
cousin of yours while at Sumpter? 

GETTY — No, sir, I did not, and Major Anderson said 
he was not there. 

Gen. B. — I regret very much if he has escaped us. 

GETTY— I think he is still in the city, General. 

Gen. B. — Then instruct your guards tp arrest all sus- 
picious persons who are not provided with proper papers. 



CHARLESTON. 31 



GETTY — I will attend to that at once, General. (Going 
R.U. E.) 

GEN. B.— Major, I forgot to inform you that Col. 
Ashworth was wounded a short time ago, and 1 had him 
conveyed to his home. I wish you would ascertain how 
badly he is hurt, and report to me this evening. 

GETTY — I hope his wound is not serious. 

Gen„B. — So do I, Major, for the.country can ill^spare 
such men. 

Getty — I will send an officer to instruct the guard and 
go to Mr. Ashworth 's house at once. (Exit R. U. E.) 
Gen. B. crosses to L. Enter Dennis L,. U. E.) 

DENNIS. — Well, now, just look at the old Major pay- 
ing them back in their own coin. Shot for shot, shell 
for shell. Be the powers I wish I was out there. 

GEN. B. — What would you do, if you were, my man! 

Dennis— Sure, I would just put a torch in the maga- 
zine and blow the Yanks to kingdom come. 

GEN. B. — What would the Yankees be doing while 
you were applying the torch? 

Dennis -Why, slaping of course. 

GEN. B.— Ha! ha! Well, Paddy, you would make a 
great General. 

DENNIS — Sure, I was a General once. 

Gen. B. — Where? 

Dennis — I was general manager of the roustabouts on 
a Mississippi stame boat . 

GEN. B. — Where did you lose your limb? 

DENNIS— At the battle of Cerro Gordo, in the Mexican 
war, sir. 

GEN. B. — Is it possible? Why, I was there, myself. 

DENNIS — What might your name be? 
GEN. B — Beauregard. 

DENNIS— What! Are you General Beauregard, the 
commander of the Confederate forces? 

GEN. B. — That is what they say, my good man. * 



32 CHARLESTON. 



DENNIS — Then I beg your honor's pardon for making 
so bold wid ye. 

GEN. B — Not at all, my friend I am always delighted 
to meet an old comrade of the Mexican war; and if I can 
be of service to you at any time, don't hesitate to let me 
know. 

DENNIS— Thank you, General, but if it wouldn't be 
axin too much of you, would you be plazed to give me a 
pass? Sure, the guards be bothering me every day for a 
pass, an dale the pass I got at all . 

GEN. B. — Wh}- certainly, old comrade. I am only 
sorry you are not able to enter the service of our Con- 
federacy and help fight for southern independence. 
(Writing ) What's your name? 

DENNIS.— D Corrigan, sir, and dale the better. 

GEN. B. — (Reads) Guards and patrols will pass the 
bearer, D. Corrigan Good for 60 days P. G. T Beau- 
regard, Gen. Commanding. There, sir, no one will 
molest you. 

Dennis — Thank you, sir, I am much obliged to you. 

GEN. B. — You are welcome, comrade. (Exit R 2 E.) 

DiiNNiS — Well, I've got a pass anyway. (Enter 
Sergeant Spot with Harry. ) 

Spot — Ha! you fellow, what are you doing here? 

DENNIS— Are yez addressing your conversation to me, 
sir? 

SPOT — Yes, I mean you. 

DENNIS — You do, ah? Well, now yer a pretty looking 
chromo of a soldier, ain't ye? Begorra! but I'd like to 
have yer picture to put up wid chewing gum and sell 
them two for a cent Sure and this world is coming to a 
pretty pass when a tin soldier like you can insult an ould 
battle scarred veteran, who fought wid Gen. Beauregard 
at the battle of Cerro Gordo under the gallant Captain 
Ash worth, who was killed and myself left a leg there. 

Spot— I didn't know that. 



CHARLESTON. 33 



Dennis — You didn't, ah? Sure, if there was no better 
soldiers than you in the Confederacy, the Yankee women 
would whip ye wid broomsticks. What do you think, me 
triend, Gen. Beauregard would do wid ye if he knew ye 
insulted one of his old soldier friends? 

vSpot — I am like all other soldiers, I must obey the 
orders of my superior officers. 

DENNIS — Certainly, sir, certainly, that is the first 
principle of a good soldier, sir, and the second is to be a 
gentleman, sir, a gentleman. 

SfoT— I am sorry, Colonel, if I have offended you, and 
I ask your pardon. 

Dennis — That's right, Sergeant. You are no coward, 
for the bravest men in the world are they who ask par- 
don from those whom they have wronged. 

Spot — I hope you won't mention this matter to the 
General. (Going. ) 

Dennis — Certainly not. By the way, who is the 
prisoner, ye have in charge, Sergeant. 

Spot — I don't know. We have received orders to ar- 
rest all suspicious persons, and as this man was acting 
strangely, I arrested him. 

Dennis — To be sure, to be sure, ( Going up to Harry. ) 
Well, well, if it is not my friend Ruble's son, Miles, 
from Memphis. How is your father, my boy? 

Harry — Pretty well, when I left home. 

Dennis — Weil, I am delighted to hear that. You see, 
Sergeant, Mr. Ruble's father and meself fought wid Gen. 
Beauregard in the Mexican War. 

Spot — Then I have made a mistake. 

Dennis — To be sure, to be sure. Me friend, the Gen- 
eral, would be grieved to think you had mislested the son 
of one of his old comrades. If ye'll let him go wid me, 
I will take him to the General and get him a pass. 

Spot — Certainly, Col. I hope Mr. Ruble, you will bear 
me no ill will for what I have done? 



34 CHARLESTON. 



Harry — None at all, sir. 

Dennis — I think, Sergeant, I can get you promoted. 

Spot — Thank you, Colonel, (going.) 

Dennis — What makes you so particular to-day, Sergt? 

Spot — Major Getty says that Yankee Ash worth, who 
attempted to assassinate him a few days ago, is in the 
city in disguise. 

Dennis — What will they do wid him if they catch 
him? 

Spot — Hang him higher than Haman. General Beau- 
regard himself couldn't prevent the soldiers from doing 
it. (Going.) 

Dennis — Sergeant, I'll spake a good word to me friend, 
the General, about ye. 

Spot — Thank you, Colonel. Good morning. (Exii 
Spot and soldiers L. 2 E.) 

Dennis — That was a close shave, me boy. It's lucky 
I recognized you. I belave 3-er losing yer head entirely. 
What are you doing here anyway? I thought when we 
came ashore last night that you was going straight to 
Washington as Major Anderson told ye. 

Harry — I had intended going on the morning train, 
but remained to see the bombardment. 

Dennis — Yes, like the moth that hovers around the 
candle, until it gets its wings singed. 

Harry — Did you succeed in seeing Stella? 

Dennis— No, she is not at home. The coon, Sam, said 
she was some place along the wharf. 

Harry — I should like to see her before I leave the 
city. 

Dennis. — Yes, and be gobbled be the guard and 
hanged. 

Harry — I *n not afraid to die. 

Dennis — Then go and die fighting fer yer country. 
It would be more glorious than to allow Major Getty to 
hang ye like a thafe. 



CHARLESTON. 35 



Harry — But I can't go until I see Stella. 

Dennis — Mr. Harry, you will excuse me saying so, 
but I think ye are doing the wrong thing when your 
country nades ye. Love and war don't go together. Do 
your fighting first and make love afterwards. That is the 
way we always did at Doney Brook fair. 

Harry — Dennis you are right. I will take the next 
train for Washington and deliver Major Anderson's mes- 
sage to the Secretary of War. You remain here until 
you have seen Stella, and explain everything to her, and 
then join me in Washington. There, we will enlist un- 
der the old Stars and Stripes, and fight treason to the 
death. (Grasp hands.) Good-by my friend. (Going.) 

Dennis — Mr. Harry, take this pass. Ye may nade it 
to get out of the city. (Gives pass.) Gen. Beauregard 
gave it to me a short time ago. Remember your name is 
Dennis Corrigan. (Exit Harry R. i E.) Well, if 1 
hadn't a promised that boy to stay, I'd go myself. But 
I must kape me word and see that little girl of his before 
I go. (Enter Sam R. running.) 

Sam — Gosh! Irish, am datyou! 

Dennis— W 7 ell; I should think so. What is the matter 
wid you? You look as though you were running from a 
ghost or a Yankee shell . 

Sam — I's done looking for my Misses. 

Dennis— Why? 

Sam — Massa Bob Ash worth am powerful bad wounded, 
and he is calling for Miss Stella all de time. 

Dennis— Where are you going to look for her? 

Sam — I don't know. Dey said ober dar dat dey dun 
seed her and Miss Kitty come down dis way. 

Dennis — I'll go wid ye, Snowball, and help hunt her. 
Come on. (Exit Dennis and Sam L. 2 E.) 

Bill T.— (Enter Bill L. I E.) "Distance lends en- 
chantment to the view." So I guess I'll just put a little 
more distance between me and that (points Iy. U. E.) 



36 CHARLESTON. 



view. Them darned Yankee shells don't make very 
sweet music. 

Jew— Help! help! 

Bill T. — What's up now. (Goes up looks over wall. ) 
Well, if there ain't old Jew Isaacs floundering in the water 
like a purpoise. Well, I guess it will be to my interest 
and Dick's, to be as deaf as a post. 

Jew — (Head over wall.) Help! help! 

Bill T. — Thunder! he is going to get out. (Draws 
pistol and shoots. Jew ? falls. ) There, he's out of a job. 
Second hand clothing finds poor sale where he's gone, for 
it is too hot to wear them. I can take these whiskers off 
now, for I'm safe. (Going R 2 E.) They'll think a 
Yankee shell hit him. (Exit R. 2E.) (Enter Marshall, 
Spot, and guard L. iE) 

Marshall — I protest against this outrage, sir. 

Spot — I can't help that, the Major told me to put you 
in a dungeon, and in you go, dead or alive. Why didn't 
you give him the papers he wanted? 

Marshall — Because I didn't want to. 

Spot — Well, maybe you'll change your mind when 
you bunk with the rats awhile. Come on. (Exit R. 1 
E.) (Enter Stella R. U. E. on sea wall, Kitty on stage.) 
(Stella looking through glasses L. U. E.) 

Stella— Oh, Kitty! Fort Sumpter is all on fire. Poor 
Harry! poor Harry! 

Kitty — Oh, Miss Stella, comedown, one of them iron 
things might hit you. (Enter Sam L. 2 E.) 

Sam — Here she is, Irish. Oh, Miss Stella, come home 
quick. Massa Bob am killed. 

STELLA — Oh, my poor papa. (Stella faints and falls 
over rocks in water.) 

KiTTY — Misses is drowning! misses is drowning! 
(Business.) 

TABLEAU— Your Couutrv Calls. 



CHARLESTON. 37 



ACT III 

SCENE I.— (Same as Scene 1, in Acts 1 and 2.— Stella discover- 
ed.) 

STELLA — Oh, war! war! thou most cruel of all afflic- 
tions! Why is it that the wicked are allowed to fan the 
political fire brand until it bursts into a fearful conflagra- 
tion, consuming the innocent with the guilty! (Enter 
Bob Ash worth.) 

Bob A. -Well, Stella, Major Anderson has surrendered 
Sumpter, and the Stars and Bars have taken the place of 
the Stars and Stripes. 

Stella— Is it a very gratifying sight to behold the flag 
of our country, under which you fought and your brother 
died, trailed in the dust? 

Bob A. — I must confess that I was sorry to see the old 
flag disappear from Charleston harbor. 

STELLA — Father, let us talk this matter over calmly 
and dispassionately, for it be may the last opportunity 
we will ever have of discussing it together. 

Bob A. — What do you mean? 

STELLA— I intend to leave this city to-day, and I may 
never return. 

Bob A. — But I shall not allow you to go. 

STELLA — You forget that I am no longer under your 
control. 

Bob A.— Surely, Stella, you don't intend leaving your 
old home? 

STELLA — Yes, father, I can remain here no longer. 
Everything around the old home awakens painful mem- 
ories. I can see again the happy times we have had in 
years gone by, before secession, like an octopus, stretched 
forth its slimy arms and infolded the brains of onr 
southern statesmen. I had a father then, a kind, indulgent 
father, whom I worshipped and thought infallible. In 
those happy days I had a cousin, the handsomest being on 



CHARLESTON. 



earth to me, a noble boy, one who would scorn to do a 
mean or dishonorable act We were a happy family then, 
living only for each other. 

Bob A —Stop, girl, stop — 

STELLA— Then came rebellion, like the deadly cyclone, 
and, oh! what a change! That kind and loving father is 
transformed into an irrational fiend, who sacrifices his 
love and his children upon the altar of disunion. 

Bob A.- Stella, such language is unbecoming to my 
daughter. 

Stella— And Heaven knows your conduct has been 
that of an unnatural parent. Do you think it was like 
my loving father to drive poor Harry from the only home 
he ever knew, because he adhered to the Union, in 
whose service his father died? Or, was it the act of a 
rational being to wreck his daughter's life by compelling 
her to marry one of the worst villains that ever bore the 
semblance of man, knowing that her heart was pledged 
to another? 

STELLA — You are not yourself to-day, child. 

STELLA— No, I am no longer the loving, trusting, light 
hearted girl I was before this unholy doctrine of secession 
was preached in our land. I am a woman now, and 
henceforth I will return blow for blow, until those who 
have injured Harry and me shall be brought to justice 
or plead for mercy. 

Bob A — What would Major Getty think were he to 
hear you express yourself in that manner? 

Stella — Richard Getty's opinion is of little conse- 
quence to me, for he is a liar and a forger. 

Bob A. — Stella, you shall not malign your husband and 
my friend by such false accusations. 

STELLA — False! Every word I have uttered is true, 
and I can prove it. 

Bob A. — Where is your proof? 

STELLA — In due time it will be forthcoming. I have 



CHARLESTON. 39 



dispatched a messenger to Major Getty to meet me here 
this morning before I leave. 

Bob A.— I don't understand what you are driving at, 
child. 

STELLA — I intend to clear Harry's name of the base 
slanders that are now being circulated in the streets of 
Charleston. That he is a Union man is true; but that he 
is an assassin and spy is as false as the heart that uttered 
it. Gen. Beauregard has agreed to investigate the mat- 
ter, and if he does justice, Harry will be exonerated, and 
Major Getty disgraced. 

Bob A.— I will not believe anything against Richard 
without proof, (going) and Stella, my advice is, don't 
lower your husband in the estimation of his General. 
(ExitL. 2E.) 

STELLA — Surely with the papers Harry sent me by 
Dennis, and what I was an eye witness to myself, I will 
be able to convince General Beauregard that Major Getty 
is unworthy to be an officer, even in the Confederate 
service. ( Enter Getty. ) 

GETTY — Good morning, my dear, I hope you are none 
the worse for the wetting you got yesterday. How un- 
fortunate the Irishman who saved you from a watery 
grave is suspected of being in league with that detestable 
spy and assassin, Harry Ash worth. 

Stella — Mr. Getty, such language is not becoming to 
a man who pretends to be a gentleman. 

GETTY — Indeed! It appears Harry Ashworth still has 
a champion in my wife. 

STELLA — Yes, for I love him better than my life. 
Getty— Rather a pleasant confession for a husband to 
hear from his wife. 

St ELL a— Husband! Richard Getty, do you suppose 
for one moment that I will ever recognize as my husband 
a man guilty of forgery? 



40 CHARLESTON. 



GETTY — Forgery! forgery! What do you mean by 
such language, woman? 

STELLA — I mean that you forged Harry's name to a 
note and sold it to a Jew money lender. 

GETTY — 'Tis false as hell. 

STELLA — 'Tis true as Heaven, (Points upward) and 
here is the evidence— the note. 

GETTY — Let me see that paper. (Going towards her.) 

STELLA— Not yet. (Enter Dennis.) 

GETTY — By Heaven! I will have it. (Scuffle, Dennis 
knocks Getty down.) 

Dennis — Keep yer claws off that lady, ye blaguard. 

GETTY — You Irish cur, I'll have your life. (Rushes at 
Dennis with drawn sword. ) 

Dennis— (Draws pistol. ) Don't come too close; yer 
breath smells of gin. (Enter Gen. Beauregard, C D.) 

GEN. B. — What means that drawn sword, Major Getty? 

Getty — That Irish dog assaulted me, and I drew it to 
defend myself. 

GEN. B. — It looked very much as though the Irishman 
was on the defensive. But I will investigate this matter 
later. Miss Ashworth, you desire to see me, I was in- 
formed, on important business. (Getty starts off C D.) 

STELLA— You will remain, Major Getty. (Getty re- 
turns, sits L.) Yes, General, I have important business 
to lay before you concerning one near and dear to me. 
Dennis, you will please find father and say to him that 
I request his presence here at once. (Exit Dennis L. 2 E. ) 
General, will you please be seated. (Gen. sits down ) 

Gen. B. — I hope you will not detain me long, as Major 
Anderson has just evacuated Fort Sumpter, and I must 
go out and see how much repairing will be required to 
put it in defensive shape again. (Enter Bob Ashworth 
and Dennis. General gets up, extends hand.) I am de- 
delighted to know, Colonel, that your injury was not 
serious. 



CHARLESTON 



Bob A. — It was only a scalp wound, but enough to take 
the senses from me for a while. 

Gen. B. — I am glad you were spared to see our flag 
raised over Fort Sumpter. Now, Miss Ashworth, we will 
hear what you have to say. 

Stella — In the first place, General, I will inform you 
that I, against my will, was married to Major Getty a 
few days ago, although I was the affianced wife of my 
cousin, Harry Ashworth. 

GEN. B — The young man who shot the Major? 

STELLA — General Beauregard, Major Getty shot him- 
self. 

Getty— 'Tis false. (Gets up. ) 

Dennis— Sit down. 

Sri-LLA — 'Tis true, for I saw you do it. He undertook 
to shoot Harry, a scuffle ensued, and in it his pistol was 
discharged and he fell by his own hand. 

GETTY — I say it is false, I didn't have a pistol with me. 

STELLA — Sit down. There is the pistol, (gives it ) 
You will see Richard Getty's name on the handle. I 
picked it up myself near the place where he fell. 

Bob A. — Why did you not tell me this at the time? 

STELLA — Because you would not have believed me. 

Gen. B — Major Getty, is this your pistol? 

GETTY— Yes, General, I lent it to Harry Ashworth the 
day he returned; he said he wanted to practice with it. 

Dennis— Oh, what a lie! Harry had two pistols of his 
own. 

GETTY — Sir? (Gets up with hand on sword.) 

Dennis— Sit down. 

Gen. B — What object could Major Getty have in 
shooting your cousin, when he had guards at hand to 
arrest him? 

STELLA — Dennis, will you tell them what Harry said. 

Dennis— Wid pleasure. Mr. Harry said that while he 
was in Europe, Major Getty had forged his name to a 



42 CHARLESTON. 



note for four hundred dollars and sold it to Jew Isaacs for 
three hundred. When the time came to redeem it Getty 
refused to do so. The Jew brought the note to Mr. Harry, 
who saw at once that it was a forgery, but in order to 
shield his cousin, Major Getty, from imprisonment and 
disgrace, he paid the Jew the three hundred dollars and 
lifted the note. 

Bob A — That was a generous act of my boy. 

Getty — 'Tis a lie. I never forged the note. (Gets 
up.) 

STELLA— Sit down, Mr. Getty. There, General, is the 
note. Hany- sent it to me by Dennis, that I might clear 
his name from infamy. 

Gen. B. — Richard Getty, your name is on the back of 
this note. Did you put it there? 

GETTY — Yes, but I didn't forge the note. 

Gen. B.— Then who did? 

Getty— Bill Thompson. 

Gen. B. — But you passed it, and you are equally 
guilty. 

Getty — General Beauregard, Harry Ashworth is an 
enemy of the Confederacy, and I would like to know 
why I, as a Confederate soldier, haven't the same right 
to convert his property' to my use as the Confederate 
Government has to take Forts Moultrie and Sumpter, the 
property of the United States, and convert them to its 
use. 

Gen. B. — Major Getty, such language is unbecoming 
to an officer of the Confederacy. You cannot possibly 
justify your dishonest action by such a comparison. 

Getty — Do you call it dishonest to despoil a spy? 

STELLA — Harry Ashworth was not a spy, as Dennis 
can tell you. He was an honorable Union man. 

GEN. B. — What do you know about it, sir? 

Dennis — General Beauregard, Air. Harry before he 
left for the North, gave me these papers. A man gave 



CHARLESTON. 43 



them to him a short time before Mr. Getty attempted to 
arrest him. They contain a drawing of all the Con- 
federate batteries in the Charleston harbor. 

GEN. B. — Why did he not take them with him? They 
would have been of inestimable value to the Federal 
government. 

DENNIS— Because he said he was no spy, and he would 
scorn to betray the city of his birth. 

Bob A. —Well said, well said. I would to heaven my 
boy were here that I might clasp him to my breast. 
(Goes over to Getty.) Oh, you infernal scoundrel, to 
ruin the reputation of so noble a boy! 

GETTY — Who drove him from home? 

Bob A. — True! true! (Drops in chair.) 

Gen B. — Major Getty, were it not for the disgrace it 
would bring upon this house, I would have you pub- 
lished before every regiment in Charleston and dismissed 
from the service in disgrace. But on account of the re- 
lationship existing between you and thi* brave lady, 
which I heartily deplore, I will only ask you for your 
resignation from the service you have so wantonly dis- 
graced, trusting that in the future you may live a better 
life. Take off that sword, sir. (Getty unbuckles sword ) 
Mr. Getty you are no longer an officer in the Confederate 
service. 

Bob A. — Thank Heaven for that. (Gets up.) 

Getty— But I am still your son-in-law. 

Bob A. — True, too true. (Sits down. ) 

GEN. B. — Miss Ash worth, (I will not humiliate you by 
calling you Getty) I am sorry that duty calls me away, 
but rest assured I shall see that the word "assassin" shall 
no longer be attached to the name of Harry Ashworth. 
Good-bye. (Exit C. D.) 

GETTY — Well, madam, I suppose you are satisfied. 
You have had your revenge . 

Steeea — I have had justice done to Harry. 



44 CHARLESTON. 



GETTY — Curse him. 

DENNIS — Curses are like stray turkeys, they come 
home to roost. 

GETTY — I wasn't addressing my conversation to you, 
sir. 

Dennis — When you address that young lady in a dis- 
respectful manner you address me. 

Bob A. — Dennis, give me that gun. (Dennis hands 
gun.) 

Stella — ( Runs over between her father and Getty.) 
Oh, father, don't commit a murder. He is unarmed. 

Bob A. — Wait, child. Now, you scoundrel, I will give 
you but one minute to leave this house, and if you are not 
gone by that time, I will send a bullet through your 
head. 

Dennis— Shoot him lower down, Colonel; his head's 
been tried. It's too thick for that revolver. 

Getty — (Going to C. D , turns. ) I go, but I swear I 
will make jovl all regret the day you disgraced the name 
of Richard Getty. (Exit C. D.) 

Bob A. — The scoundrel, I should have shot him like a 
dog. 

STELLA — You forget he is my husband. 

Bob A. —I can never forget that. Oh, daughter! Why 
didn't you allow me to take my own life before I com- 
mitted that outrage. 

Dennis —If you only say the word, Colonel, I'll make 
Miss Stella a widow. 

Stella— No, Dennis. 

DENNIS— Then I hope somebody else will, 

Bob A — I will have a divorce for her inside of forty- 
eight hours. (Exit Dennis ) 

STELLA — Father, our Episcopal church teaches, "what 
God hath joined together, let no man put asunder." 

Bob A. — But yours is an exceptional case. 

STELLA— God's holy writ makes no exception. 



CHARLESTON. 45 

Hob A — But girl, you will not remain that scoundrel's 
wife. 

STELLA— Yes, father, "until death doth part us." 

SCENE II.— (Street in Charleston.) 

Bill T.— (Enter Bill Thompson R., Getty L.) Hello! 
Major; I have been looking for you all morning. I was 
at your office, and the coon said you had gone over to 
Ashworth's place. Went over to see your bride, ah! 

Getty— Yes, and met with a very cool reception. 

Bill — I suppose so from the girl, but how about the 
old man? 

GETTY - He invited me to leave the house in a de- 
cidedly pointed manner. 

Bill — How pointed was it? 

GETTY — At the point of a revolver. 

Bill — Thunder! what's the matter now? 

GETTY — Matter enough, "the fat's iti the fire " Yon 
know the note we palmed off on old Jew Isaac, signed by 
Harry Ashworth? 

Bill— Yes, I ought to. 

GETTY — Well, the old Jew took it to Harry, who paid 
it off and then sent it to Stella. 

Bill- Hang the old Israelite. What a pity I hadn't 
killed him a little sooner Well, what are they going to 
do about it? 

- GETTY— Do about it? My wife called in General 
Beauregard, who acted as judge advocate. 

Bill — And the decision? 

Getty — I am dismissed from the service, so I am no 
longer Major, but plain Mr. Getty. 

BiLL— Confound it, Dick, you should have paid that 
jew when he demanded the money. 

Getty— I should have shot him 

Bill — Wal, what are you going to do now. seeing yer 
out of a job? 



46 CHARLESTON. 



GETTY — Go out west with you and seek my fortune on 
the Mississippi. 

Bill — Now yer talking, old man; never say die. We'll 
start at once and take that nigger Sam with us. 

GETTY— But he belongs to Mr. Ashworth, you know. 

Bill — Darn the difference. The old sucker loaned 
him to you in prosperity, and I'd continue to borrow him 
in adversity. The nigger won't know any better. 

GETTY— That's a fact. Bill, you have a great head. 
But as I have some business to attend to, come, and we 
will talk the matter over as we go. (Exit R. i E.) 
(Enter Dennis L. i E. Enter newsboy R. i E.) 

Boy — Here's your evening papers! All about the 
shooting of Major Getty! Paper, sir? 

Dennis — Yes. (Buys paper.) 

Boy — Thank you, sir. (Going.) Herd's your evening 
papers! All about the shooting of Major Getty! (Exit.) 

Dennis — Hello! this is correct for a wonder, (reads.) 
"Gen. Beauregard has investigated the shooting of AJajor 
Getty by his cousin, Harry Ashworth, and from the 
evidence presented to him by Harry's friends, found that 
Major Getty shot himself with his own pistol in attempt- 
ing to arrest his cousin. Major Getty gave out the im- 
pression that Mr. Ashworth shot him, and thus made 
himself a hero in the eyes of the Charleston people. Poor 
fellow! He is a hero no longer; for General Beauregard, 
on learning the facts, had him dismissed from the Con- 
federate service . " I'll just take this paper north with 
me and show it to Mr. Harry. I know he will be pleased 
to see it. (Enter Beauregard R. I E.) 

GEN. B. — Well, sir, how are Mr. Ashworth's folks this 
afternoon? 

DENNIS— Pretty well, General, thank you. They are 
getting ready to leave the city. 

GEN. B. — Why, where are they going? 

DENNIS— Miss Stella don't want to remain where she 



CHARLESTON. 



has had so much trouble, so the Colonel is going to take 
her on a trip to New Orleans and other points in the 
West 

GEN. B. — But what are you going to do? I think you 
had better enlist in our army. 

Dennis — Thank you, General, but I promised to join 
Mr. Harry in Baltimore, and I was just going to your 
headquarters to see if you wouldn't plaze give me a pass. 

GEN. B. — Well, I will consider the matter. You call 
around this evening. (Exit Gen. Beauregard. ) 

DENNIS —Well, I'll be around, you bet, for I never 
wanted to see Mr. Harry so bad. Poor man! He'll be 
terribly broken up, when he learns Miss Stella is married 
to that blackguard, Getty. (Enter Kitty R. backing.) 

KiTTY— Good-bye, Mrs. Maloney, I'll write ye a letter 
when I get there. (Dennis catches her. ) 

DENNIS — Out on a fly. 

KiTTY — Now, Dennis, yer off yer base. 

DENNIS — I'm playing short-stop now. 

KiTTY — No, I think yer playing catcher, and I am at 
the bat. (Slaps Dennis.) 

DENNIS —Strike one, and the next will be a foul ball, 
Kitty, for I have to bid you good-bye. I am going to 
lave for Washington this evening. 

Kitty — I thought you were going to stay with us. 

Dennis— Sol was; but since Stella is married, her 
father repentant, and Getty in disgrace, I don't see of 
what use I can be here. 

Kitty — What will you do up North? 

Dennis— Enlist wid Mr. Harry and fight the bloody 
rebels until the stars and stripes again float over all this 
country. 

Kitty— Won't you come and bid Miss Stella good-bye? 
We lave in an hour. 

DENNIS— Yes, I believe I will. Come on. (Exit R. i 
E) 



4'S CHARLESTON. 



SCENE III.— (Landscape on the Mississippi— John Hurst's home 
—Set house L. 2E., Bridge back. R. 2 L. Enter Mose E. U E. 

Mose — Here I's been fishin' an fishin' an fishin' an I 
dun didn't get a bite; yes, I got lots of skeeter bites; but 
dey don't count. I's nigh onto a hundred years old, but 
I neber had such luck. (Knter Mrs Hurst ) 

Mrs. H. — Well, Uncle Mose, what luck this morning? 

MoSE — No luck 't all missus, no luck 't all. I jes set 
on de ground so long dat my rheumatics am powerful 
bad. I's nigh onto a hundred years old, but I neber seed 
fish so skerce. 

Mrs. H. — You'll have better luck to-morrow. Uncle 
Mose. 

MoSE — I belebe dem boat wid cannon on dem what 
went up to Island No. 10 and New Madrid hab sheered 
de fish. 

Mrs. H. —Those were Confederate gunboats. 

MoSE— Yes, dat am de name. I went down to see one 
ob dem big guns, and I's nigh onto a hundred years old, 
but I neber see de like befo. 

Mrs. H.— You wern't afraid of them were you? 

MoSE -Oh, no, dey had wooden plugs in de end ob 
dem. 

Mrs H.— What was the plug for? 

MoSE I asked one ob de sojers, and he said it "was 
to keep the gun from sinking if it fell ober board." 

Mrs. H — They were guying you, Uncle. (Horse heard 
off.) Ah! there comes your master. 

John H.— (Heard off.) John, you John. 

MoSE— I dun seed John asleep down by de ole syca- 
more tree, while ago. 

Mrs H. — Well, you had better go and take the horse, 
Uncle Mose. 

MoSE— Certainly, certainly, (going) dat John am de 
laziest nigger I eberseed, and I's nigh onto — 

Mrs. H. — Never mind your age now, Mose. 



CHARLESTON. 49 



Mose— All right, Missus, I's off. (Exit R. 2 E.) 
( Enter John Hurst with whip and leggings ) 

Mrs H — I was afraid night would overtake you be- 
fore you got home, John. 

John H. — I am not afraid of the dark, Mary. 

Mrs H. —But there are so many bad characters in the 
country now, that it isn't safe to be out after dark. 

John H. — Yes, southern aristocrats like that cutthroat 
Bill Thompson and his gang. 

Mrs. H. — Husband, all southern soldiers are not like 
Bill Thompson. 

John H. — Darned if I don't believe the majority of 
them are. 

Mrs H. — No, John, the Confederate army is com- 
posed of the first families of the South. 

John H. — Lord help the second! 

Mrs. H — Our officers are the flower of the land. 

John H. — What a thunderin' pity there hadn't been a 
big frost before they bloomed . 

Mrs. H. — John, it would be the joy of my life if you 
were as true to the south as Brother Robert is. 

John H. — And be visited by divine retribution as he 
has been — his daughter linked for life to a scoundrel — 
one of your first families of the South. Poor girl! How 
my heart bleeds for her! She is an innocent victim of 
this cursed secession movement. But it proves what the 
good book says to be true, "The sins of the parent shall 
be visited on the children, even unto the third and fourth 
generations." (Enter Mose R. 2 E ) 

Mosk — Massa John, here am a letter dat I guess you 
dropped. 

John H.— It's for you, Mary. (Mary takes letter, opens 
it and reads.) Well, Mose, did you give Billy a good 
rubbing? 

Mose— Yes, Massa, and I gib him a gallon and a half 
oh oats; was dat right? 



50 CHARLESTON. 



John H. — Yes, that was all right, Mose. 

Mrs. H.— John, this is from Stella. Robert has re- 
turned to Charleston to look after his business, and 
Stella is coming up to stay with us. She says she will 
only return home when the Union flag waves over Fort 
Sumpter. I think she will stay away a long time. (Con- 
tinues reading ) 

John H.— God bless her Union heart! I hope not. 

Mrs. H. — Why, John, she was to have left Memphis 
yesterday . She will be here this evening. ( Boat heard 
off. ) 

John H. — There comes a packet now; perhaps she is on 
it. (Boat whistle for landing.) We had better go down 
and give her a hearty welcome. (Exit L. U. E ) 

Mose — I think dar is sumfin' wrong wid dat are fishin' 
tackle ob mine. I'll just repair it up a bit. (Exit Mose 
R. i E. Steam boat passes Enter Bill Thompson and 
Getty from R. on bridge. ) 

BiEE — I think you will have to stir yourself to catch 
the boat, Major. 

Getty — I will only remain in New Madrid for a few 
days. Only long enough to get what ammunition our 
men will need. By the way, is not this old John Hurst's 
plantation? 

Bile— Yes, but it will be in ashes one of these days. 

GETTY — Don't burn it before I get back. (Exit Getty 
over bridge to L. Bill comes down L. ) 

Bile — No, I'll not burn it until I see the Yankees are 
going to take Island No. 10, and then, John Hurst, I'll 
pay off old scores. Hello! there is some one coming with 
the old man. I'll bet that is Getty's wife; if it is he will 
soon have possession of her. I will drop behind this tree 
and find out. (Exit behind tree. ) (Enter Hurst, Stella, 
Mrs. Hurst and Kitty L. U. E. Comes down stage.) 

John H. — Welcome, thrice welcome to our home, 
Stella. 



CHARLESTON. 51 



STELLA — I only regret father is not here to share your 
hospitality with me, but we have been from home so long 
that he thought it best to return and look after his busi- 
ness; but he promised to join me here in a week or so. 
Father is a changed man, Uncle John, since our trouble 
came upon us. 

John H.— In what way? 

STELLA — He has about reached the conclusion that 
secession is wrong, and that this trouble between the 
North and South should have been amicably settled by 
arbitration. 

John H. — Hurrah! I knew the old man's heart was 
all right. It was his darned old head that got wrong. 
What do you think of that, Mary? Your idols, like those 
of Baal, are tumbling one by one. 

Mrs. H. — I'll never acknowledge that I am wrong. 

John H. — I never saw a woman that would. 

STELLA — Now, Uncle, don't slander our sex. 

John H. — The truth is never slander. (Cross to Iy.) but 
come into the house. It is getting damp out here. (Exit 
in house.) 

Bill— Just as I thought. Getty's wife is here to stay 
for awhile. Ha! ha! my revenge will be sweet, for when 
we burn the old man out we will carry off the niece. 
(Kitty sings ) Some one is coming. (Bill T. gets behind 
tree. Enter Kitty L,. 2 E. Enter Mose with fish pole 
and line. ) 

Kitty — Hello! Uncle what is your name? 

MOSE — My name am Moses, dey call me Mose for 
short, and I's nigh onto a hundred years old honey. 

Kitty — You are not the Mose who was found in the 
bullrushes by PliaroahVs daughter? 

MOSE— No, honey, I guess not. My moder was a 
colored woman. 

Kitty — Well, Uncle Mose, let me see your fishin' 
tackel. 



52 CHARLESTON. 



MOSE — Be careful, hone}-, dat am a limeric hook. 

Kitty — Now, I'll fish for suckers. (Business ) I've 
got a bite, Uncle Mose, I've got a bite. (Bill comes out 
from behind tree.) 

Bill — Oh! oh! Darn your pictures, girl, you have got 
that hook in my jaw. 

Kitty — Ha! ha! ha! what kind of a fish do you call it, 
Uncle Mose — a gray back sucker? 

MOSE — I's nigh onto a hundred years old, but I neber 
seed such a fish befo. 

Bill — Stop that, girl. You old black reprobate come 
and take this hook out of my jaw, or I'll cut your head 
off. 

Kitty — Make him say please, Uncle Mose; make him 
say please. (Enter Mrs. Hurst ) 

Mrs H. — Why, what are you doing, Kitty? 

KiTTY — Fishing; I caught this sucker hiding behind a 
tree. 

Bill — Mrs. Hurst, will you take this hook out of my 

Mrs. H. — Mose, remove the hook. (Mose removing 
hook.) 

Bill — Don't be so rough, you old fool. 

MOSE — It was a good thing dat was a limerick hook, 
for it might a broke off in yer jaw. (Exit Mose R U. E ) 

MRS. H. — What were you doing, a spying around here? 

Bill — That is my business, madam. 

MRS. H. — I suppose you are looking around for a good 
horse to steal. It isn't as dangerous business as fighting 
Yankees, but more profitable. 

Bill — You are right there, and as your husband is a 
Union man, I think we will borrow a few of his critters 
one of these days. 

MRS. H. — When you do, you will find worse than 
fish-hooks to contend with. Come, Kitty; Stella wants 
you. (Exit Mrs. Hurst in house.) (Kitty crosses to L ) 



CHARLESTON. 53 



Kitty — People generally string fish when they catch 
them, but I'll lave that job for the Yankees, ha! ha! ha! 
Good-bye (Exit in house.) 

Bill — Laugh, laugh, but the time is coming when you 
will all laugh out of the other side of your mouth. (Exit 
Bill R. 2 E Dark stage.) 

MOSE— (Heard off.) L-uf dat hoss alone, luf dat hoss 
alone. Massa John! Massa John! he's a stealin' your 
hoss, he's a stealin your hoss. (Shot fired, horse heard 
off. ) ( Enter Hurst from house. ) 

John H. — What's the matter now? (Enter Mose R.) 

MOSE — Oh, — Massa — John ! — he— stole — Billy — and — 
shot— me.— I' s— nigh — onto— a — hundred — years— old. — 
Good-bye^ — Massa — John, — I's— goin' — goin' — (Drops. 
Enter Stella, Kitty and Mrs. Hurst. Refrain, "Poor Old 
Slave.") (Curtain.) 

TABLEAU— (Freedom ) 



ACT IV. 

SCENE I.— (Tent — Col. Ashworth's quarters at Point Pleasant, 
Mo. Harry discovered.)— Soldiers sing, "Tenting to-night. " 

Harry — Now that General Pope has taken New 
Madrid, it will be but a few days until Island No. 10 will 
also fall into our hands. (Enter Dennis.) Well, Lieu- 
tenant, what news have you from up the river? 

Dennis —One of our gunboats ran past the rebel bat- 
teries at Island No. 10 last night, and she is now lying at 
New Madrid; I saw her myself. She is a daisy. 

Harry — What boat was it? 

DENNIS — The Corondelet, commanded by Walker. 

Harry — One of the best in Commodore Foote's fleet. 
Now, if we had steamboats to carry our troops across the 
river, we would soon have possession of the Island. 

DENNIS — We will soon have the boats, for General 
Pope is cutting a canal across the country. 



54 CHARLESTON. 



Harry — That is impossible, Dennis. 

Dennis — There is nothing impossible for General 
Pope. You should have heard him rant about those 
prisoners we took up. He said Gen. Plummer should 
have shot at least three of them. 

Harry — Why should he have shot them? 

DENNIS — Because they belonged to that notorious Bill 
Thompson's guerrillas. 

Harry — I have heard of that scoundrel before. Uncle 
John Hurst had him arrested before the war for trying 
to run off a free nigger up here at New Madrid. 

Marshall— (Heard off.) Run, nigger, run, he's after 
you. 

Harry— What's up now? 

Sam— (Enter h. U. E.) Oh, Massa! don't let him 
took me, don't let him took me. (Drops on knees ) 

Harry— What's the matter, boy? 

Sam — (Gets up.) Oh, its Massa Harry! praise de Lord! 
praise de Lord! 

Harry — Why, if it is not our boy, Sam. Where did 
you come from? 

SAM — I dun runned off case dey whipped me. 

Harry — Who dared to whip you? 

Sam— Massa Dick. (Enter Dick Getty.) Dar he is. 

Harry— Well, sir; what do you want? 

GETTY — I want my slave. 

Sam— I isn't his slave, Massa Harry. Massa Bob only 
loaned him to me in Charleston, and when him and Bill 
Thompson corned away dey stole me wid dem. Dat am 
a fac. 

Getty— It's a lie. 

Dennis— I believe the nigger tells the truth, Colonel. 

Getty — Would you take a nigger's word before you 
would a white man's? 

Dennis— I would take a nigger's word before I would 
yours, Major Getty. 



CHARLESTON. 55 

HaRRY — Richard Getty, a Confederate soldier who 
enters the Union lines in citizen's clothes is liable to be 
hanged for a spy. 

GETTY — I am no longer a Confederate soldier, as that 
Irishman knows. I was dismissed from the service at 
Charleston, and have been located on a plantation across 
the river here ever since. 

Sam— Oh! what a lie. He belongs to Bill Thompson's 
guerrillas over on Redfoot Lake. 

GETTY — That is another lie. 

SAM — Dat am de truf, Massa Harry. 

Harry— Richard, I will have to place you under ar- 
rest until this matter is investigated. Lieut., you will 
take Mr. Getty to Gen. Plummer's headquarters. 

GETTY— (Drawing two pistols. Back! Move one foot 
and you die. (Dennis moves forward, Getty shoots and 
runs off L. U. E.) 

Harry — Great Heavens, Dennis! are you hit? 

Dennis— Yes, Col., I am. No. (Pulls book from 
pocket. ) The bullet struck me Bible. 

Sam— Well, if dat don't beat de debil. 

Dennis— That is just what it is intended for. 

Harry — (Goes to L,., calls off.) Men, after that tel- 
low and take him dead or alive. 

Dennis— I'll just take a hand in that skermish meself , 
Col. (Exit Dennis.) 

Sam —I hope dey kill him, Massa Harry, I hope dey kill 
him, case den Miss Stella would be a widdy. 

Harry — So do I, Sam, but where is Stella now? 

Sam— Ober dar at Massa John Hurst's. She dun been 
dar for a long time. 

Harry — Is it possible that I have been so near her 
and did not know it? How do you know she is there, 
Sam? 

Sam— Cause I dun heard Massa Dick and Bill Thomp- 
son talkin' 'bout burnin' Massa John Hurst's house and 



CHARLESTON. 



barns and toting Miss Stella off to de guerrillas' camp in 
de swamp. 

Harry — When are they going to commit this outrage, 
Sam, do you know? (Firing off L.) 

Sam — Jis as soon as de rebels vacuate No. 10. 

Harry— Uncle John must have warning of this. 
(Enter Dennis I,. U. E.) 

DENNIS — Colonel, that scoundrel has succeeded in 
crossing the river. 

Harry — I am very sorry, Lieut., for Sam informs me 
that he and Bill Thompson contemplate burning Uncle 
John's property and kidnapping Stella, who is now stay- 
ing there. 

DENNIS— They ought to be warned of their danger. 

Harry — That is just what I thought, but how can it 
be accomplished? 

DENNIS — I'll do it meself, Col., wid your permission. 

Harry — But it would be a dangerous undertaking, 
Dennis. 

DENNIS — Devil the bit I care for the danger, if you 
say so. 

Harry — Then go, my brave fellow, and may Heaven 
protect you. (Dennis starts.) 

DENNIS — Sam, come on; I may nade ye. 

Sam — Irish, dey kill you sure. 

DENNIS — Come on. (Exit with Sam.) 

Harry — The success Dennis met with in Charleston 
assures me that he will not fail this time. Poor Stella! 
how she must have suffered in the past year. (Enter 
Sam L.) 

Sam — Lookey yere, Master Harry, don't youse think 
dat is like flying in de face ob providence for me to go 
wid dat Irishman? 

Harry — No, Sam, Lieut. Corrigan will take good care 
of you. 

Sam— All right, Master Harry, all right. (Going L., 



CHARLESTON, 



returns.) Siy, Massa Harry, you hasn't got a book dat 
youse could loan me, has you? 

HARRY — Ha! ha! what do you want with a book, 
Sam? 

Sam— Why, to stop de bullets, ob course. 

Harry — Here is one Sam. (Gives buok ) Will it 
answer the purpose? 

Sam — I, golly! Dat am jis exzactly right; dat would 
stop a cannon ball. I jist proceed to re just dis yere 
armor for de occasion (Puts book under coat.) Now. 
den, I feels like a-jas-ac defying de lightning. (Shot 
heard off.) Oh, Gosh! was dey shootin' at me? 

Harry —No, that was only one of the pickets firing. 

Sam— Gosh! if one picket makes dat much noise what 
would de whole fence make if it went off togeder. 

Dennis — (Heard off ) Come on here, ye nager. 

Sam -I's a goin' "like a lamb to de slaughter house." 
Good-bye, Massa Barry. (Exit L. Enter Marshall R. 
2E) 

Marshall -Have I the honor of addressing Colonel 
Harry Ashworth? 

HARRY — Yes, sir, that is my name. 

MARSHALL— My name is Marshall, of Gen. Pope's 
staff, and I have been sent by him to consult you on im- 
portant business. 

Harry — What is the nature of it, Captain? 

Marshall -General Plummer informs him that you 
are well acquainted with the country around Tiptonville 
and Redfoot Lake. 

Harry — Yes, Captain, I have spent months at a time 
in that country visiting my Uncle, and every foot of 
ground from Tiptonville to Island No. 10 is familiar to 
me. 

Marshall— In view of that fact, Gen. Pope desires 
3 t ou to take a body of picked men and cross the river to- 
night and locate the enemy. The Corondelet ran the 



58 CHARLESTON. 



gauntlet at Island No. 10 last night, and is now at New 
Madrid She will be sent down here to-morrow to shell 
the rebel batteries along the river, and it would be to our 
advantage to know their location. 

HARRr— I am under obligation to the General for the 
honor he has conferred upon me; besides it will give me 
the opportunity I have long desired of visiting those dear 
to me. When does the General want my report? 

Marshall— I am instructed to accompany you, Col- 
onel, and I hope to be able to make a report in person 

HARKY- 1 have a trusty Lieutenant, Captain, who is 
about to cross the river I think it would be advisable 
to instruct him to select a safe landing for us to-night. 
Suppose I go and see him before he starts. 

MARSHALL— Certainly, Colonel, I will accompany 
you. (Exit Harry and Marshall L. 2 E.) 

SCENE II— (Landing near TiptonvilJe on the Mississippi.) 

Dennis— (Heard off.) Steady there, you nager, or 
you will have us into the river. There, now, make fast 
to that root. All right, now me boy, go on. (Enter Sam 
and Dennis in disguise ) Wait, Sam, 'till I tie yer 
hands. (Ties hands behind back.) Now, then, )-er 
name is John, and I want you to do anything I tell ye, 
and swear to everything I say. 

Sam— Yes, Massa, I would even swear I was an Irish- 
man if you said so. 

Dennis — Look here, nager, if you make another break 
like that, I'll pitch you into the river. Whist! there 
comes a grayback. (Enter Spot. ) 

Spot — Hello, Colonel! I am glad to see you. 

Dennis —Let me see. Where did I see you before? 

Spot — At Charleston the day we bombarded Sumpter. 

Dennis — To be sure, to be sure. I remember it w r ell 
now. That was the day you arrested me friend, Ruble. 
Well, this is a pleasure, sir, a pleasure. I see you are 
Leftenant. Been promoted, ah? 



CHARLESTON. 59 



Spot— I think I owe my promotion to yon I received 
my commission a short time after I met yon, and yon 
said you would speak to the General about me. 

Dennis — So I did, I told General Beauregard it was a 
pity as good a soldier as you were not a Lieutenant or 
Captain. 

Sam— Yes, I dun heard him tell de General dat myself. 

Dennis— Shut up. (To Spot ) Where is me friend, 
the General, now? 

Spot — He left for Corinth with the most of our army 
this morning to join General Johnston. 

Dennis — Is that so? I intended to call on him to-day, 
but this confounded nager run off, and I had to cross the 
river into the Yankee camp to get him. 

Spot— I saw you coming across just now. 

DENNIS — Yes, I just landed, and I was afraid your 
pickets would stop. meat the landing. 

Spot — I have withdrawn them from here, and placed 
them further up the river. 

DENNIS —Are you officer of the day? 

Spot— No, but I am on General Beauregard's staff and 
he left me behind as picket line inspector. 

Dennis— To be sure, to be sure; he couldn't have 
made a better selection. 

Sam— No, dat am a fac. 

Dennis— (To Sam. ) Shut up. So there will be no 
danger of the pickets bothering me down here? 

Spot — No, I have just withdrawn the last of them. 

Dennis — Then I'll be moving on. Good-day, Leften- 
ant, I hope to see you again soon. 

Spot— Good-day. (ExitL) 

Sam— Yes, we bofe hope to see you sooner. 

Dennis —Shut up. What are you lippin in for? 

Sam— Didn't you dun tol me when you didn't tol de 
truf , I must swear to it. 

Dennis — Yes, that's right. 



6o CHARLESTON. 



SAM — Didn't you gib him lots of taffy, do? 
DENNIS — Sam, if you bait yer hook wid flattery ye'll 
always catch suckers. Come on. (Exit R.) 

SCENE III. — (John Hurst's plantation on the Mississippi— Rus- 
tic seat— Set. house L. 2E., bridge back R. to L. Enter Ash- 
worth and Hurst R. 2 E . ) 

Bob A. — So you think Bill Thompson's guerrillas in- 
tend to raid your plantation? 

John H. — Yes, I look to be burnt out at any time by 
that villain. 

Bob A. — Why is he so spiteful at you? 

John H. —Because I had him put in jail for trying to 
kidnap a free nigger. 

Bob A. — He must be a vindictive fellow. 

John H. — Yes, he has already stolen one of my best 
horses, and shot poor old Mose. 

Bob A. — I think he and that scoundrel Getty are linked 
together in crime. 

John H. — And I am sure of it. 

Bob A. — I believe I was insane when I forced Stella to 
marry that villain 

John H. — And I thought you either insane or a fool. 

Bob A. — Yes, I see it now. The new flag has brought 
me nothing but trouble, and I long to be under the old 
one again. 

John H. — Then just stay here for a few days, and your 
wish will be fulfilled. General Beauregard has practi- 
cally given up the contest at Island No 10, and has gone 
to Corinth, taking most of his army with him. 

Bob A.— Then I'll stay right here, John, and help you 
welcome the Boys in Blue. 

John H. — Heaven bless you, old comrade!. I knew 
your heart was right. Come right into the house and 
we'll clinch that resolution with a drink of old Tennessee 
apple jack. (Exit Ashworth and Hurst, linked arms. ) 
(Enter Kitty over bridge, comes down R.) 



CHARLESTON. 6 1 



Kitty- Well, I haven't had any better kick than poor 
old Mose used to have. I guess it was because I was 
watching the Union soldiers on the other side of the river 
and wondering if Mr. Harry and Dennis were among 
them, for Miss Stella says they are both in the Union 
Army. (Enter Getty R. 2 E. 

GETTY— Well, Kitty, I am overjoyed to see you. 

Kitty — Don't die wid joy, Mr. Getty, and chate the 
hangman out of a job. 

GETTY — Ha! ha! I see age hasn't improved your tem- 
per. 

KiPTY - Nor 3^our character, nather. 

GETTY — Your tongue is as sharp as your famous fish- 
hook. 

KiTTY— What do you know about fish-hooks? 

GETTY — Captain Thompson says yours caught him in 
the jaw. 

KiTTY — So, so. You do belong to Bill Thompson's 
guerrillas, ah? 

GETTY— \A ho says I do? 

KiTTY— Them as knows. 

Getty — Some folks know too much. 

KiTTY — That is not you. 

GETTY — Is Mrs. Getty in the house? 

KLTTY — You had better go in and see, and then you'll 
know. 

GETTY— So I will. (Going.) Who has a better right? 
(Exit Getty in house.) 

Kitty Ha! ha! Now, there will be some fun. That 
sucker don't know Mr. Ashworth arrived yesterday, and 
I've heard him say time and again, that he would kick 
Getty out if he ever came into his house, and he'll do it. 

Bob A. — (Heard in house.) Get out of this, you thief of 
the world. 

Kitty— Ha! ha! ha! The fun has commenced. You'll 



62 CHARLESTON. 



see him come out in a minute. (Enter Getty quick from 
house, hatless.) 

Bob A. — (At door throws hat.) You villain, if ever you 
enter my daughter's presence again, I'll shoot you. (Exit 
Ashworth in house.) 

GKTTY — Curse you, Bob Ashworth, you shall pay for 
this insult. 

Kitty — Poor Major! You struck a snag, didn't you? 

GETTY— You go to thunder. (Going.) 

Kitty— If I do, I'll not take the boot route. (Exit 
Getty R. 2 E.) Ha! ha! ha! He can't say his father-in- 
law gave him a sole-less reception. (Enter Dennis and 
Sam in disguise, L,. U. E.) 

Dennis— How are you, mam? 

Kitty— Oh, Dennis! 

Dennis— Whist! Would ye have me hanged? 

Kitty — They wouldn't hang ye for coming to see me, 
would they! 

Dennis - Certainly they would. Lieutenant Spot would 
like to get rid of me so he could get you himself. 

Kitty— Sure, you're a great dale nicer then Spot, be- 
cause ye belong to the Union army. 

Dennis— That's right Kitty, stand by your colors. I 
dranied last night I was in jail for stealing ye. 

S^ M — Dat so, I heard him dream it. 

Dennis— Shut up. 

Kitty — And how did ye get out? 

Dennis — I dreamed I had the smallpox, and broke out. 
(Kitty pouts ) 

Sam — Yes, I seed de marks on him. 

Dennis— Shut up! (To Kitty. ) Oh, come now, Kitty, 
you are not mad about a little joke like that? 

Kitty — You should 'have dramed I broke the jail 
down and let you out. 

Dennis — That's exactly what I did drame, didn't I 
Sam? 



CHARLESTON. 63 



Sam — I isn't going to lie for yon any mo. 

DENNIS -Ha! ha! ha! Come, Kitty, business before 
pleasure; I want to see Mr. Hnrst and Stella. 

KiTTY— Well, come on, they are in the house. 

DENNIS— You stop here, Sam, until I come out. (Exit 
Dennis and Kitty in house.) 

Sam— Yes, I stays right here, for I's powerful sleepy; 
got no sleep las night. (Ivies down on bench. Stage 
half dark. Enter Spot I v . U. E. , coming down. ) 

Spot— I don't understand the movements of the Col- 
onel. He came directly down here, and this man Hurst 
is known to be a Union man. Hello! if there isn't his 
nigger, and fast asleep too. He don't look much like he 
would run off now. Maybe the Colonel has him chained 
to that bench. (Sam rolls off bench.) Ha! ha! (Shakes 
Sam.) Here, wake up. 

Sam — (Raising on knees ) Oh, don't whip me massa! 
I'll neber run off any more. 

Spot— Why, what's the matter with you, man? I'm 
not your master. 

Sam— 'Scuse me, I's been 'sleep, I guess. 

Spot —How does it come your master left you alone? 
Wasn't he afraid you would run off again? 

Sam — What's de use ob a nigger runnin' off? Dar's no 
place for him to go. De Yankees gim 'em right back to 
der master again. 

Spot— Well, that is so. They can raise corn and pork 
for us Confederate soldiers. The Yankees don't want 
us to starve. 

Sam —I guess dat's so. (Enter Dennis from house. ) 

DE^NiS^-Well, Left-tenant, it appears we meet again. 

Spot— Yes, Colonel. The Yanks on the other side of 
the river have been acting very suspicious this evening, 
and as we have no guards along the river at this point, I 
thought I would patrol it myself for a few hours. 

Dennis— To be sure, to be sure. A wise precaution, 



64 CHARLESTON. 

sir, a wise precaution. What were the Yankees doino- 
that excited your suspicions. 

Spot— They appeared to be getting a large boat ready 
to launch. 

Dennis— (Drawing pistol.) Throw up 3-our hands. 
(Spot throws up hands.) 

Spot — What does this mean, Colonel? 

DENNIS — It means that you are my prisoner. Sam, tie 
his hands. Put your hands behind your back, Mr. Spot. 
(Sam ties hands.) 

Spot— I don't understand this outrage, sir. 

Dennis— I am sorry to discommode you, sir, but self 
preservation is the first law of nature. I am a Union 
officer, and as we have an expedition that is going to 
land down there to-night, it is necessary for you to be 
out of the road. Now, you will not be injured if you 
behave yourself, but if you attempt to escape or make 
any outcry, I will send a bullet through your head 
Lead on, Sam, wid de prisoner. (Exit all L. U. B ) 
(Dark stage. Enter Getty and Thompson and men R. 

2E.) 

Getty— Now, Bill, fire the stables first. I will hide 
here by the house and when they come out in the excite- 
ment, I will seize Stella and you can do as you please 
after that. 

Bill — But suppose they don't come out? 

Getty — Then we will fire the house and smoke them 
out. Now, go. (Exit Bill R , Getty L.) 

STELLA— (Entering from house.) How I hope Harry 
will reach here to-night, but I tremble for his safety, for 
such an undertaking is fraught with danger. Oh, Harry! 
Harry! If I could but see you once more, I would be 
content to die. (Sits down on seat R. (Enter Getty L.) 

GETTY — Well, my dear wife, I am sorn- to disturb 
your meditations, but time is precious to me just now. 

Stella— (Business.) Let me pass, sir. 



CHARLESTON. 65 



GETTY— Not yet. You have carried a high hand long 
enough. I have come to take you with me, peaceably 
if I can, forcibly if I must. 

STELLA— I will never go with you, peaceably or other- 
wise. 

GETTY— We shall see. (Advancing.) 

Stella — Back. (Draws knife.) Mr. Getty, if you 
lay but one finger on me, I will bury this knife in your 
cowardly body. (Enter Bill Thompson R. 2 B. ) 

GETTY— Ha! ha! You have more spirit than I gave 
you credit for. Come. ( Business.) So, my beauty, you 
are caught. (Red fire off R ) 

STELLA— Oh! you base cowards! you have fired the 
stables. Fire! fire! fire! (Business.) Getty seizes Stella, 
Bill runs right. Shots heard off. Enter Harry and 
others L. Throws Getty down stage.) (Business.) 

Harry — You scoundrel, I have you now. 

STELLA— Spare him! Spare him! (Harry turns to 
Stella ) Oh, Harry! Barry! (Business.) 

.GETTY -Ha! ha! Well, truly, that is a pleasant sight 
for an injured husband's eyes. Really, cousin mine, I 
thought you were more of a gentleman than that. 

HARRY— What do you mean, sir? 

Getty— I mean you are hugging my wife. 

HARRY — She is not your wife, base coward. 

GETTY— Don't call names, cousin, but ask the lady 
herself. 

STELLA — (Going from Harry ) Yes, Harry, 'tis too 
true. I am the unhappy wife of that man "until death 
doth part us." Oh, papa! (Drops head on Ashworth's 
shoulder. ) 

Dennis — Well, that won't be long. (Draws up pistol 
to shoot. ) 

Harry — Wait, Dennis; who witnessed the marriage? 

Getty— Sei-geant Spot. 

Harry — Lieutenant Spot, come here. (Spot and Union 

/ 



66 CHARLESTON. 



soldiers enter R. ) Did you witness the marriage between 
Mr. Getty and that young lady? 
Spot— Yes sir, I did. 

GETTY — Ha! ha! So you see she is really my wife. 
Marshaee- (Coming down.) You are a liar, sir. Do 
you know me, Mr. Getty? If you don't, you should. One 
vear ago I was in the secret service of the United States. 
The Secretary- of w r ar sent me to Charleston to draw a 
map of the Confederate fortifications, and knowing that 
I would be safer in disguise, I assumed the robe of a 
priest. This man ( points to Spot) arrested me and took 
me to Mr. Getty, who was at Mr. Ash worth's house, and 
it was I who perfoi med the marriage ceremony. 

Bob A. — Thank heaven for that! for if you had not 
performed the ceremony-, I, in my insane frenzy would 
have had a clergman marry them, and my poor darling's 
life would have been wrecked forever. 

Marshaee— I must continue. I met him a short time 
after the ceremony down by the battery, when he again 
arrested me and had me placed in a dungeon because I 
would not give him a marriage certificate. When I was 
released, Mr. Ashworth and his daughter had left the 
city. 

Bob A. — You villain. (Shakes fist at Getty.) Take her, 
Harry, and may Heaven's choicest blessings go with you. 
Get .1 Y — Ha! ha! Well, it appears as though the game 
is up. I have staked everything on my hand and lost. 
You, Harry Ashworth, have been the winner, but that 
young lady shall never be your bride. (Draws pistol, 
shoots. Bill and Sam fall. Exit Getty, followed by 
Marshall and soldiers R. i E. ) 

Harry— Sam, poor fellow, are you hit? 
Sam— Never touched me, Massa. Look dar. (Pulls 
out book ) 

Dennis -(Takes book.) There is no bullet mark on 
this, Sam. 



CHARLESTON. 



^ 



John H. — But there is one there. (Points to Bill 
Thompson.) (Enter Getty on bridge, shoots. Shots 
heard off, Getty falls. Enter Marshall and soldiers on 
bridge.) 

Tableau— Justice. 

[THE END.] 




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